Como-Pickton Consolidated School District held the annual staff awards at the secondary cafeteria on Wednesday, May 6.
“Today is the special opportunity for us to come together as a district family and recognize the people who make Como-Pickton such an exceptional place for our students to learn and grow,” CPCISD Superintendent Lydia Walden said. “Each day, our teachers and staff go above and beyond, often in ways that are unseen, to support, encourage, and inspire every student who walks through our doors.”
Eagle Pride
The Eagle Pride of the Year award went to Food Service Director JoAnn Fuller. According to Walden, this award celebrates an individual who embodies the very spirit of the school through leadership, dedication and a deep commitment to serving others.
“Behind every successful school day is a foundation of care, and this person ensures that foundation is strong. Not only does she make sure our students are fed and ready to learn, but she also leads a department that reflects positivity, teamwork and genuine pride in their work,” Walden said. “ From maintaining the high standards of nutrition and safety to fostering a happy, welcoming environment, her leadership creates a space where both staff and students thrive. Her impact goes far beyond the cafeteria as she sets the tone for excellence, supports her team wholeheartedly and contributes to a culture that values well being, respect and community.”
Fuller will be retiring this year and will have a celebration on the last day of school.
According to Walden, Fuller had planned on retiring last year and when the district was notified that their audit would take place this year, she agreed to stay on another year.
Teachers of the Year
Elementary Teacher of the Year was awarded to Special education teacher Leslie McDowell. Elementary Principal Jennifer Bunch presented her the award.
“She stepped into a new role this year and has taken it on with grace and love, Bunch said. “She works really hard every single day, not only for her students with the most needs that we have on our campus, but also manages adults with grace and love.”
Junior High Teacher of the Year went to history teacher Steven Smith. Junior high Principal Chris Lewis presented the award to Smith.
“I always talk about how a teacher should have a hook to get the kids interested. And a lot of times I'll be standing in the hallway and he goes, ‘Hey, you want to see what we're doing now?” Lewis said. “I’m a history teacher, he’s a history teacher, and I walk in and I'm there. I'll stay there for 2030 minutes, and he's got me hooked.”
Smith is well respected not just by students but also teachers serving as a meant for others, according to Lewis.
Biology teacher Osvaldo Torres received the High School Teacher of the Year Award. High school Principal Kelly Baird recognized and awarded Torres.
“This individual is respected by students, respected by staff, is a teacher of a tested subject always and the kids always perform at the top of the state and region,” Baird said. “This particular teacher is so well respected by the staff that last year when I picked a teacher of the year, they booed at me for not picking this teacher.”
Torres was also selected to compete at the Region 8 competition between Secondary Teacher of the Year.
“He is at the top of the state every year in biology. He's been here for nine years,” Baird said. “I hired him at midterm of my first year and a grade higher.”
Staff of the Year Awards
“We'd also like to recognize someone whose work often happens behind the scenes, but whose impact is felt every single day across our campus,” Walden said.
The Eagle Support Staff of the Year was awarded to Danielle Rutledge. According to Walden, she exemplifies dedication, compassion and an unwavering commitment to student success.
“She supports not just academic growth, but confidence, independence and dignity in every student that she serves. Her colleagues know her as someone who can be counted on without hesitation,” Walden said. “She lifts others up, contributes to positives, supportive environment for both our students and staff. And our work is not always in the spotlight, but it's absolutely essential to the success of our school community. Her dedication doesn't go unnoticed.”
Auxiliary Staff of the Year went to cafeteria attendant Carla Slaughter.
“We're going to recognize someone who does much more than just prepare and serve meals. She helps create a welcoming space where students feel seen and cared for every day. She shows up with consistency, kindness and a strong work ethic with ensuring that our students are well fed and ready to learn,” Walden said. “Her role is essential to the rhythm of our school. She brings warmth and every interaction, takes pride in serving others with a smile, and we're deeply grateful for all she does.”
CPCISD Counselor Jady Martin was named the Newcomer of the Year. Lewis presented the award to Martin.
“What she does is super important,” Lewis said. “She can be seen all over all the campuses, running from here to there, gets pulled in all sorts of directions, and she wears many hats. And sometimes she has to do things that are not even really her responsibility.”
Walden thanked Secretary Karla Jacks for setting everything up for the ceremony.
“We celebrate their dedication, and most importantly, we celebrate the heart behind the work,” Walden said. “The individuals who give their time and energy and their passion to making a difference in the lives of others. From the classroom to the cafeteria, from the front office and to behind the scenes, every role in Como-Pickton CISD matters.”