I am Mrs. Linda Driver, the School Counselor for 8th grade and 7th grade students (last names N-Z) at Kennedy Road Middle School. Born and raised in Griffin, I am honored to serve the community that has been such a meaningful part of my life. I have been happily married to my husband, Joseph Driver Jr., and together we are blessed with four adult children and eight wonderful grandchildren.

I hold a Master’s in Education with a degree in School Counseling from Liberty University (2013), a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Grand Canyon University (2011), and an Associate Degree in Accounting from Southern Crescent Technical College (1990).

Since 1999, I have worked in education in various roles, including Attendance Clerk, Secretary, and Bookkeeper. My true passion lies in supporting students and their families, and I am excited to be part of the Kennedy Road Middle School team. As a School Counselor, I provide academic, social-emotional, and career guidance to help students succeed in school and beyond. I work closely with teachers, parents, and administrators to identify and address challenges that may impact student achievement and well-being. Through individual and small-group counseling, classroom guidance lessons, and crisis intervention, I strive to equip students with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Additionally, I advocate for students by fostering a school culture that prioritizes inclusivity, resilience, and personal growth. My goal is to help students develop essential life skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and decision-making. I am also committed to promoting mental health awareness and ensuring that students have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

My mission is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our scholars, families, and community. I am dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and prepared for a bright future.

I am Ms. Kamari Blackmon, the school counselor for all 6th-grade and 7th grade students (last names A-M) at Kennedy Road Middle School. I am dedicated to supporting the academic, social-emotional, and development of every student. I strive to foster a safe, welcoming, environment where students feel comfortable, heard, seen, and empowered.

I earned my Bachelor’s of Arts in Sociology from Paine College and my Master’s of Social Work from Kennesaw State University. Before joining Kennedy Road Middle School, I was afforded the opportunity to work with unhoused families and community organizations, which deepened my passion for assisting young individuals with navigating challenges and achieving their goals.

I am committed to empowering students by fostering a supportive and positive environment where every student feels valued, encouraged, and respected. At Kennedy Road Middle School, I am dedicated to empowering students by providing student-centered counseling services that support their academic achievement, social-emotional development, and future success. Collaborating with families, teachers, and staff, I advocate for students while helping them build healthy relationships, develop effective coping strategies, and discover their strengths. I look forward to being a source of support and encouragement for students as they navigate their middle school years.