In a heartfelt farewell, Dolores Borden reflected on her journey as the Instructional Support Person of the Year for 2025 during a recent government meeting. Borden, who has dedicated her career to supporting educators and students, shared her personal story of resilience as a single mother of four, balancing multiple jobs while pursuing further education. Her message resonated with many, particularly single parents, as she emphasized the importance of perseverance and the rewards that come from hard work.
Borden expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Emily Graham, the district's Teacher of the Year, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the Savannah Chatham County Public Schools (SCCPSS). She detailed her responsibilities, which included attending Board of Education meetings, providing minutes for discussions, and engaging with fellow educators to advocate for improvements in the school system. Borden also mentioned her participation in community events, such as the Martin Luther King parade and the St. Patrick's Day float, underscoring the role of the Instructional Support Person as a voice for the district.
Her journey, she noted, was made possible through the support of her principal, Mr. Wall, and her nursing administrator, Lisa Wilson, who stood by her throughout this honor. Borden's tenure as Instructional Support Person of the Year has not only been a personal achievement but also an inspirational experience that she hopes will encourage others in the community.
As she prepares to pass the torch to the next recipient in 2026, Borden's message serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on the educational landscape and the importance of community support in fostering success for all students.