School Counseling

Jen Beckler, Freshman Counselor

Jen Beckler is a dedicated school counselor at Hardin Valley Academy, currently celebrating her 20th year. Of those 20 years, 14 have been as the freshman counselor at HVA. She earned her bachelor's degree in human services and her master’s degree in School Counseling from the University of Tennessee. She recently completed her EdS in Instructional Leadership at LMU. Throughout her career, Jen has been passionate about supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth, helping them reach their full potential both in and out of the classroom. Outside of school, Jen enjoys playing soccer, camping, traveling, and spending quality time with her family and friends. Her enthusiasm for helping others and her love of adventure shine through in both her professional and personal life.

Email Mrs. Beckler

Taylor Smith, Business and Law Academy Counselor

Ms. Smith holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; an M.A. in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling from Johnson University; and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University. She is currently in her sixth year as a school counselor, following two years as a Helen Ross McNabb therapist serving HVA and HVMS. An HVA alumna herself, Ms. Smith is proud to serve in the community where she grew up.

Email Ms. Smith

Dana Quick, Health Science Academy Counselor

Mrs. Dana Quick earned both her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Science in School Counseling from Western Carolina University. She has been a school counselor for 20 years, with the last eight spent serving the students and families of Hardin Valley Academy. Mrs. Quick is passionate about supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth and helping them reach their full potential. She was previously recognized as Smoky Mountain Middle School Counselor of the Year for her dedication to student success and her commitment to fostering a positive school environment.

Email Mrs. Quick

Book time with mrs. QUICK

Carmen Long, Liberal Arts Counselor

Carmen Long is HVA’s school counselor for the Liberal Arts, Communication, and Design Academy. She has been at HVA since 2017. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Exceptional Learning from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and her Master’s Degree in School Counseling and EdS in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. Prior to becoming a school counselor, Mrs. Long worked for a non-profit and managed a family business.  She enjoys working with students, teachers and families. Outside of school, Mrs. Long likes to read, spend time with family and friends, and go to the beach whenever possible.

Email Ms. Long

Courtney Sanford, STEM Counselor

Courtney Sanford is the School Counselor for HVA’s STEM Academy. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Tennessee Tech University, where she also played collegiate volleyball, and later received her Master’s degree in School Counseling from Lincoln Memorial University. Now in her sixth year as a school counselor, she draws on both her educational background and prior corporate experience to support students in meaningful ways. She is passionate about supporting students in their academic success, social and emotional growth, and college and career planning. In her free time, Courtney enjoys watching sports and spending time with her two little ones.

Email Ms. Sanford

Sam Burkhalter, College and Career Counselor

Sam holds a B.A. in Psychology and an M.S. in School Counseling from the University of Tennessee. With a strong background in understanding human behavior and supporting student development, she is passionate about helping others reach their personal and academic goals. Outside of work, Sam is an avid runner who has completed two full marathons and numerous half-marathons. 

Email Ms. Burkhalter

Class of 2026 Resources

Senior Calendar

Senior Checklist

Scholarship Information

Cassie Lockhart, Testing Coordinator

Cassie Lockhart serves as the Testing Coordinator at Hardin Valley Academy. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in K–8 Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision, both from Lipscomb University.

This is her third year at Hardin Valley Academy, Mrs. Lockhart previously worked in Metro Nashville Public Schools and Sumner County Schools. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time outdoors and watching sports, especially when her kids are playing.

Email Mrs. Lockhart

Erin Smith

To request records, contact Ms. Erin at erin.smith@knoxschools.org or (865)690-9690 opt. 1, opt. 2

If you are a former student requesting a transcript, you can submit your request at parchment.com. 

Erica Ford

For enrollment information, contact Ms. Erica at erica.ford@knoxschools.org or (865)690-9690 opt. 1, opt. 1.