Faces of Mountain Brook: Kenneth Harkless

Mountain Brook schools are known as some of the safest in the state, and part of the credit for that goes to Kenneth Harkless, the long-time K-12 counselor for the Mountain Brook School System. Harkless has worked for Mountain Brook for 25 years, primarily at the high school.

“My role as a school counselor is to be available, primarily, to assist in making the journey through school as safe and successful as possible,” Harkless said. “Hopefully, I serve as a safe and confidential resource for students, parents and other adults who need assistance with matters that can potentially impact not only academic performance, but also personal life and potential. It is important for me to be a good listener. Sometimes giving guidance and direction. At other times I need to be encouraging, helping others to find their voice.”

Harkless also trains runners for the Mercedes Marathon, is a contract coach for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training, and attends Worship Center Christian Church.

“I have enjoyed widespread community support in my work, which often requires pulling together numerous resources to address a need,” Harkless said. “Mountain Brook is not only blessed with many resources, but is one of the most giving communities I’ve ever encountered.”