Newton County Schools holds inaugural recognition for counselors, social workers and psychologists

Newton County Schools held its first recognition program for support professionals on an inaugural luncheon that honored school counselors, social workers and school psychologists.

Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley said the new awards are part of the Board of Education—————ongoing efforts to elevate and appreciate staff contributions to student success.

The district announced two awards. Dr. Keith Benton, director of student and family support, presented Mr. George Hutchinson, a social worker, as the district———————support professional of the year, and Dr. Kelly Parker of Newton High School as counselor of the year. "It was quite a surprise, and an honor. It means a great deal to be the first recipient of this award. I feel like the award belongs to all of my colleagues, not just to me," Hutchinson said after receiving the honor.

Dr. Parker thanked the district and the board for the recognition, saying counselors, social workers and psychologists "have never been acknowledged before." She added, "We're just wanting to help the student," reflecting on the role these staff play behind the scenes.

District officials described the luncheon as both ceremonial and a sign of shifting emphasis by the Board of Education toward recognizing nonteaching staff who provide academic, social and emotional supports. No formal board action or funding changes were announced during the remarks.

The awards mark the first time Newton County Schools has presented district-level honors specifically for support professionals. District leaders said the recognition is intended to highlight roles that contribute to student well-being and academic achievement.