Walton County Board honors volunteers, staff and community partners at 1 Walton Impact Awards

During the meeting the Walton County Board of Education set aside time for recognitions, presenting 1 Walton Impact Awards to volunteers, PTO leaders and community partners across several schools.

Superintendent Underwood introduced a tribute video and then invited school representatives to present award recipients. Kim Lester of Harmony Elementary introduced Alex Roberts as the school's honoree, citing many volunteer contributions: "Mr. Roberts is many things to the students and staff of Harmony. He is a tireless, tireless volunteer...He has personally built coffee bars and tea stations for our teachers...sponsoring our digital sign year after year," she said.

Dane Callahan presented a nomination from Monroe Elementary for a dedicated PTO leader and parent, noting that the nominee’s business, Mookie Moose, has partnered with the school to provide resources and fundraising support. Alicia Burford presented Walker Park Elementary's honoree, Judy Apolka, recognizing her years of service as a paraprofessional and continued volunteer work after retirement. Michael Youngblood recognized the Carver Middle School PTO team (including Miss Nagy and Miss Thunderhurst) for their volunteer leadership. Eddie Hood presented Monroe Area High School's recipient, Pastor Tommy Fountain, and listed his community support in providing meals, renovating facilities and volunteering across local schools.

Superintendent Underwood and the chair invited honorees and board members for a group photo and thanked staff, noting that the board wanted to communicate their appreciation to teachers and staff for their day‑to‑day work.

All recognitions were presented as non‑controversial acknowledgments; no public comments or objections were recorded in the transcript during the recognition segment.