It’s often said that home is where the heart is, and for Red Level High School’s new counselor that couldn’t be a truer statement.

Melissa Nall graduated from RLHS in 1990 and taught elementary school for 21 years, including third and sixth grades, as was the reading coach. Additionally, she taught seventh and eighth grade language arts.

Nall recently earned her master’s degree in counseling.

“I’m very excited,” she said of her new role. “My husband and I were alumni, and my heart has always been at Red Level. That’s where I wanted to be.”

The Nalls children grew up at Red Level, too.

“My daughter, Hayden, graduated in 2012,” she said. “And my daughter, Meredith is a senior.”

Nall said her heart and dedication has always been at RLHS.

“The faculty has always been like family,” she said.

Nall has plans to put college at the forefront and genuinely help RLHS students find their next step toward success.

“I want to implement a four-year plan, where they don’t have to wait until they are a senior to prepare for college,” she said. “They will be able to start early.”

Nall said she wants to ensure that seniors have every opportunity to be able to visit colleges and connect with recruiters.

“I want them to get the best that they deserve,” se said.

Additionally, she said she wants to help build school spirit and pride.

“There are great things going on a Red Level,” she said.