Wake County board honors school psychologist and names Broughton greenhouse for longtime teacher

The Wake County Board of Education used part of its June 4 meeting to recognize district staff and alumni. Board members named Dridra Martin (presented as Deidra Martin in the meeting) the Wake County 2024–25 School Psychologist of the Year and voted to name Broughton High School’s greenhouse in honor of Laura Woods.

School psychologist recognition: Michelle Woodson presented Deidra Martin’s work, noting Martin’s 17 years as a school psychologist and 15 years with Wake County Public Schools. According to the presentation, Martin serves Forest Pines Elementary and Wake Forest Middle School, leads behavioral health screening, coaches a girls group, guided small‑group interventions using the Coping Cat curriculum for student anxiety and served on the North Carolina School Psychology Association, where she has held leadership roles.

Naming the greenhouse: Central area superintendent Lacey Peckham introduced a request from Broughton High School to name the school greenhouse for Laura Woods, who taught biology at Broughton for 36 years and retired in 2023. Principal Denise Dilts and Woods were invited to the podium. Board member Mister Hershey moved to approve the naming; Miss Edmonds seconded. The board voted in favor by voice vote and the motion passed.

Why it matters: The presentations highlighted educator career contributions to student learning, sustainability and environmental education. Board members and the district noted the naming as a way to honor a teacher who founded a student environmental club and promoted hands‑on science education.

Next steps: The board will schedule a naming ceremony and bring any related administrative steps to the district calendar.