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Board honors 81-year-old graduate, national-board teachers and retiring SRO
Summary
McDowell County Schools recognized Miss Gracie Jackson (an 81-year-old adult high school diploma recipient), multiple National Board–certified teachers and retiring School Resource Officer Eric Rodriguez; transportation staff and CTE teachers were also honored.
The March 9 meeting included a series of recognitions highlighting student perseverance, teacher excellence and long-serving staff. Assistant Superintendent Crystal Hamby presented Miss Gracie Jackson, 81, who completed an adult high school diploma through McDow Tech Community College and McDowell County Schools; the board and attendees gave her a standing ovation.
Hamby also introduced and honored multiple teachers who achieved or renewed National Board certification and recognized National Board Ambassadors who will mentor colleagues. The board applauded Career and Technical Education teachers whose students earned industry-recognized credentials in areas including HVAC, welding, AutoCAD, emergency management, and law-enforcement-related certifications.
The district recognized both certified and classified employees of the month. Transportation Director Will Thomas was singled out for more than 20 years of service supervising a fleet the district said includes more than 60 buses and 13 activity buses.
Teacher representative Amber Loen led a tribute to School Resource Officer Eric Rodriguez, who retired after 20 years of law-enforcement service and five years as an SRO. A student read a testimonial describing Rodriguez’s mentorship and credited him with steering the student away from a path that could have led to juvenile detention; the board presented Rodriguez with a symbolic starfish keychain to mark the difference he made to individuals.
Why it matters Recognitions put a spotlight on retention, staff expertise and student supports that district leaders say contribute to school climate. The honors also demonstrate district priorities — supporting teacher development (National Board certification, CTE credentialing) and publicly acknowledging employees whose work affects student safety and daily operations.
What was said (selected quotes) "At 81 years young, Miss Jackson earned her adult high school diploma..." — Crystal Hamby
"I don't think people truly understand how much Eric has impacted my life... Eric stepped in not just as a school resource officer, but as a mentor." — student testimony about Officer Rodriguez
The board closed the recognitions portion of the meeting with applause and proceeded to its business agenda.
