LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Justin Estes

Position: Lead Counselor
School: Travis B. Bryan High School
School District: Bryan ISD
City, State: Bryan, TX

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Justin Estes was nominated by his colleague, Patricia Bailey-Jones.

"There are several reasons why I decided to nominate Justin Estes as a Life Changer of the Year. Justin is a humble person who continues to make a difference in students' lives," said Bailey-Jones. "I met Justin when he was my daughter's English teacher during her sophomore year in the fall of 2006. I remember her constantly talking about his patience in working with students in class that didn't want to be there. He would never stop encouraging them until they finally began to put forth effort in their assignments. He continued praising students and pushing them further to excel."

Later, Mr. Estes became a counselor. In this position, he was able to connect with many students. He not only helped them understand how to select the courses required for graduation, but he helped them examine their interests, passions, and dreams for the future. Mr. Estes has a unique way of getting students to open up to him in a way many others couldn't. He makes students feel very welcome when they come to his office. Mr. Estes has many one-on-one sessions with students and shows them that he really cares about them. The rapport Mr. Estes establishes with students continues even after they graduate high school. So many students continue to stay in touch with him, ask for his advice, and value his opinion.

"I remember how Justin impacted the life of a student battling cancer," said Bailey-Jones. "The student's wish was to graduate from high school, but cancer was taking over this student's life and making it difficult for him to attend school. Since he couldn't participate in school, Justin helped to take school to him. He worked with him to earn his credits so he could graduate earlier. He worked with the family to have a graduation ceremony, which meant the world to this student and his family. Sadly, the young man passed away about a week or so after his graduation. But Justin's compassion didn't stop there. He continued to work with the family to establish a scholarship in the young man's honor."

Mr. Estes' hard work and commitment to the students under his care are evident to anyone that sees him interact with students. He was promoted to the position of lead counselor about seven years ago. His promotion only allowed him to work with more students. His only desire is to see students be successful.

"Under his direction, I've seen a number of first-time graduates be the first in their families to not only graduate from high school, but attend college," said Bailey-Jones. "He assists them in maneuvering the steps it takes to obtain financial aid and gain scholarships to make this possible for the students. He empowers them to believe in themselves and their abilities. I've seen the pride and confidence in students grow so much under his tutelage."

His passion for helping students doesn't stop when he leaves the halls of Bryan High. He works effortlessly with young people as a mentor for Big Brother Big Sisters of America. In this capacity, he spends hours upon hours with youths to help them believe in themselves and gain confidence. Mr. Estes empowers them to strive to reach their goals. His only desire is for students to become successful in their life choices.

"He has truly changed the lives of many students at Bryan High School," said Bailey-Jones.

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Comments (11)

Carol Cune Posted over a year ago

I have known Justin as a student teacher, an English teacher, and a counselor at Bryan High School. Justin demonstrates all the characteristics of an employee that a school seeks. I also know Justin on a personal level. He supported my family and me through the unexpected death of my son. He was there through the unbearable hard times and his support helped my family get through a devastating event. Even though my son has been gone for almost ten years, Justin is still part of my life and I am honored to call him a friend. He has been a true life-changer for my family.

Chantel Hluchan Posted over a year ago

Mr. Estes goes above and beyond for his students. He is an advocate for all students at Bryan High School. Mr. Estes is very active in our local Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Brazos Valley. He is more than just a counselor; he is vested in not only BHS but our community as well.

Lane Buban Posted over a year ago

I am the principal of the campus Justin works on and he serves me as our lead counselor. In my 24 years of education, I've never come across a more dedicated, professional, caring counselor. Justin is always willing to go above and beyond to help students and families. His devotion to his students and families is unsurpassed and he is a integral part of my leadership team. Through the years, he's been able to positively impact hundreds if not thousands of lives. I couldn't imagine doing my job without him and his leadership.

A. Wells Posted over a year ago

I believe wholeheartedly that Justin is the best candidate for the award of Lifechanger of the Year. Justin's dedication to the students at Bryan High is unmeasurable. His honesty, dependability, confidence, and excellent communication skills help him change the lives of many students. Justin is a true people person. I’ve been incredibly impressed with his warmth, personability, and commitment to the students. With his enthusiasm, positive energy, and attentiveness to their needs, he brings a special gift that reaches students and leads them to success. I have spoken with other parents and we appreciate him and the work that he does. We are grateful for his leadership and for the many times when he has gone the extra mile on a task to help make a difference in a student's life. It is an honor to recommend Justin Estes for Lifechanger of the Year.

Linda Montoya Posted over a year ago

Every school district needs a Justin Estes! Justin is kind, humble, student-focused and always ready to support any Bryan High student no matter what the need. Justin is a natural at building relationships with students and he easily gains the trust of students who need him. Justin assists students as they move through their high school years. He knows how critical it is for students to finish high school and set goals for the future. Bryan ISD is blessed to have Justin Estes in the position of Lead Counselor. He is more than deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year Award! #LCOY

Lisa Mouton Posted over a year ago

Congratulations on this well-deserved nomination!

Tierney Hurst Posted over a year ago

Justin is a phenomenal role model for students and teachers on campus. He is always willing to lend a helping hand. He goes above and beyond to make sure our students are successful in their studies and preparations for their next steps after high school.

Ximena Reynoso Posted over a year ago

#LCOY

Mary Sanders Posted over a year ago

Not only is Justin an amazing counselor, but he is an amazing coworker and friend. He goes to great lengths to help people be successful. His kind and compassionate spirit is contagious and something that we should all strive to duplicate.

Brooke Rowan Posted over a year ago

I have had the privilege of teaching in the same hallway as Justin's office at BHS. I am thankful that he is always willing to answer my questions and help me solve problems. If he does not know the answer, which is rare, he knows who to point me to in order for me to get the answers I need. I appreciate all that he does for both students and staff at BHS.

Allison Robertson Posted over a year ago

Mr. Estes is the real deal. He is the epitome of a guidance counselor, mentor, and coworker. He has helped me personally as a parent of a challenging teenager, and professionally as a teacher. He truly deserves an award for changing lives.