Profile by Nikeal Cole
Graphics by Eagle Media

Eden Pendley, the new OCHS college coach, has been selected for this week's Staff Spotlight. This is Ms. Pendley’s first year working in a school setting. She attended Western Kentucky University and now works as our college coach. 

To describe her role at this school, Ms. Pendley says, “I help kids figure out whether they want to go to college or if they want to enter the workforce and then, depending on their choice, help them towards their future.”

Ms. Pendley’s goal is to help as many students as she can before they graduate and go off into the real world. In her own words, here’s the process she goes through with those students: “So the college part, I help them apply to college, apply for scholarships, complete the FAFSA, see if there's anything else that they need to write like essays... And if they want to enter the workforce, I help them get connected with employers in the community, make sure they have what they need to be able to start that job and what skills they can start developing while they're in high school to work in that field.”

Ms. Pendley's effect on students here could be beneficial because she offers extra support some staff members may not have the time to give. “I know our counselors here work with every student in the school, but our core students that I work with are those who I can… give that extra support to. Our counselors may not be able to, since they do… help every student in the school.”

Outside of school she enjoys having fun in the kitchen and outdoorsy activities. “I absolutely love to bake and cook. Anything outdoors, like fishing, hiking. I'm the worship leader at our church, so singing and music is a big part of my life. And then sports. I absolutely love football and basketball.” 

We are so grateful to have Eden Pendley with us this year!