Mankato East High School Counselor Named Minnesota School Counselor of the Year

Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS) is proud to announce that Heather Krause, school counselor at Mankato East High School, has been named the Minnesota School Counselor of the Year by the Minnesota School Counselors Association (MSCA).

Krause, who has served as a school counselor in MAPS for 24 years, was recognized at a recent MSCA awards ceremony. After being named Minnesota Secondary School Counselor of the Year last year, Krause has now earned the statewide honor. She will travel to Washington, D.C., in January to be recognized at a national celebration alongside school counselors from across the country.

At Mankato East High School, Krause is one of three school counselors. Her work focuses on academic success, college and career readiness, and personal and social development. Through individual counseling, small-group sessions and classroom activities, she helps students navigate challenges, explore opportunities and prepare for life after high school.

For Krause, one of the most rewarding parts of her work is watching students reach graduation and take their next steps toward their future goals.

Mankato East High School Principal Akram Osman praised Krause for her professionalism, expertise and unwavering commitment to students.

“Heather brings tremendous knowledge and passion to her work,” said Osman. “She counsels with integrity, builds meaningful relationships with students and families, and is deeply committed to helping every student succeed.”

Krause’s impact extends beyond MAPS. She has served on the MSCA state board for 13 years as the coordinator of its Guidelines newsletter, building connections with school counselors and postsecondary educators throughout Minnesota. She has also mentored more than 17 school counseling interns who now serve students in Minnesota, Iowa and Arizona.

Krause earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Gustavus Adolphus College, a master’s degree in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She also holds national board certifications in counseling and school counseling.

Mankato Area Public Schools congratulates Krause on this outstanding recognition and celebrates the lasting difference she continues to make in the lives of students, families and fellow educators.