Congratulations to Victoria Metzinger, Franklin Heights High School school counselor, who has been selected as one of only five finalists for the Ohio School Counselor of the Year award by the Ohio School Counselor Association.
Metzinger was selected as a finalist from many applications submitted across the state with one who will be selected to represent Ohio as the “2026 School Counselor of the Year. The honoree will be announced prior to the upcoming awards ceremony on Oct. 15.
For students and families at Franklin Heights High School, Metzinger’s work reflects a commitment to helping students make the most of their high school experience while preparing for life after graduation.
“Vicki Metzinger is probably one of the most passionate people I’ve ever worked with when it comes to trying to improve the lives of students,” said Tim Donahue, principal of Franklin Heights High School. “She looks at so many different ways to enhance their educational experience, their post-graduation opportunities, and their personal trajectory after high school.”
That commitment extends beyond the traditional role of a school counselor. Metzinger works to connect students and families with opportunities and resources that can make a difference both inside and outside the classroom.
“She looks for the whole family and the whole community,” Donahue said. “It’s not just the student she’s working with. She works to make the growth of each student an experience for the whole family with an emphasis on how they can change their community after high school.”
For Donahue, Metzinger’s impact is measured not only by the students she helps today, but by the opportunities she helps them see for themselves tomorrow.
“She has a way of helping students see that there is more ahead of them than they may realize,” Donahue said. “She wants them to leave Franklin Heights knowing what they are capable of, understanding the opportunities available to them and feeling confident about the path they choose after graduation.”
That passion and commitment have made a lasting impression on the Golden Falcon community.
Congratulations, Mrs. Metzinger, on being named a finalist for the Ohio School Counselor of the Year award and on this well-deserved recognition of the difference you make for students and families at Franklin Heights High School!
