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McDowell County Schools honor staff and community members as “Everyday Heroes”
Summary
McDowell County Schools recognized more than a dozen employees, volunteers and community partners as “Everyday Heroes,” citing long service, daily student support and community outreach across the district for the 2024–25 school year.
McDowell County Schools recognized more than a dozen employees, volunteers and community partners as “Everyday Heroes” during a district recognition event, with principals and program leaders presenting awards for the 2024–25 school year.
District leaders said the award highlights sustained contributions to students and families. Tracy Widman, principal of East MacDowell Middle School, said of one honoree, “She embodies the Trojan spirit. She's dedicated, compassionate, and selfless.”
Several principals described the specific roles and long-term service of the honorees. Billy Klein, principal of McDowell Academy for Innovation, recognized Wilma Elliott, saying she has had “a huge impact on the students and families of McDowell County Schools for almost 50 years” as a math teacher at several county high schools. Deanna Ray, principal of Glenwood Elementary School, described Betty Ross as a retired educator who “has continued to volunteer at Glenwood,” mentoring students weekly and serving as a parent surrogate for students with high needs.
Other honorees included school counselors, custodial staff, volunteers and community partners. Adam Wiseman, principal of North Cove Elementary, recognized Glenda Glenn for stepping into the role of interim school counselor and “going above and beyond to support both our students and staff.” Edwin Spivey, principal of West McDowell Middle School, called Crystal Marsh “the glue that holds us together,” noting Marsh greets families and handles front-office responsibilities with a “nurturing demeanor.”
Presenters also noted extracurricular and community efforts. A presenter recognized McDowell High School English teacher Samuel Roy for organizing student council activities and community fundraisers that support families; the presenter said Roy continued volunteering after suffering personal property damage in a recent storm. Rodney Wheeler, director of the Summer Academy, named Lincoln Pappo for daily technology support and student interaction; Wheeler called him “the UNO champion” and “the student whisperer.”
Faith-based and volunteer partners were included among honorees. Melissa Elliott, principal of Eastfield Global Magnet School, recognized Pastor Terry Roach for providing personal-care items through a school “share cart,” delivering Christmas support to eight families and leading a weekly after-school club.
The event was a recognition ceremony only; no formal board action, motions or votes were taken during the presentations. The district listed the award recipients as part of its ongoing community-engagement and staff-appreciation efforts for the 2024–25 school year.
The district did not provide an overall tally of honorees in the meeting record; individual principals named their schools' recipients and summarized each honoree's contributions during the presentations.
