PITT COUNTY SCHOOLS PRESENTS… “FOREVER STARS” 2013 All of our retirees are stars. Each one has a unique quality that makes them special. Before each profile, you will see words that describe just how special each retiree is. Professional… Ann Adams As the head of guidance you couldn’t find a more organized, professional, and polite person. Ann had the ability to bring out the best qualities of her students and her department ,which has helped it to run so smoothly. Not to mention, she was a great dresser! You will always catch Mrs. Adams dressed to impress . You could hear her coming down the hallway before you saw her because she always had heels on. We will certainly miss seeing and hearing you in halls of JH Rose! -JH Rose Administration Team 23.8 Years of Service Guidance Counselor J.H. Rose Presence… Cathy Powell The best way in which I will remember and can describe Mrs. Powell is through her famous sayings. One of her favorite quotes was the classic, "Why are you STILL talking?" One of my favorites was any time a child denied being involved in an incident, in which they were clearly the instigator, you will hear Cathy say, "Honey, you are in the middle of it like a hair in a biscuit!” She will be missed! -Will Sanderson, Principal Grifton School 30.7 Years of Service 6th Grade Math/Science Teacher Grifton School Tireless effort… Cathy Keeter Cathy Keeter worked tirelessly for this school district. She lived and breathed Exceptional Children. So much so, that we routinely checked on Cathy after her retirement to make sure she was still living and breathing without us. We miss Cathy and are grateful for her many years of service and dedication to the children of Pitt County. Children in this district are better off because of Cathy, and one cannot ask for a better legacy than that. We wish Cathy all the best and will always love her and appreciate her. 6 Years of Service Director: Exceptional Children Pitt County Schools -Cheryl Olmsted Assistant Superintendent of Educational Programs and Services Engaging… Cathy Marsh Mrs. Cathy Marsh is the "Queen of Sixth Grade Math." She has taken great pride in teaching her content area and working to ensure that her students grasp the concept. It was not uncommon to see Mrs. Marsh sing a silly song, create a funny story, or do a cool dance to engage her students. Each day that you walk into her classroom, it was evident that Mrs. Marsh loved math, but most importantly she loved her children. The Raider Community will truly miss Mrs. Marsh. We wish her the best as she starts this new phase of her life. -Tracy Cole, Principal AG Cox 22 Years of Service 6th grade Math Teacher A. G. Cox Middle School Energetic…. Cindi Brown During Cindi's first tenure at Farmville Central, she was an energetic leader in the Math department with a passion for teaching kids and collaborating with colleagues. She was an integral part of the School Improvement Team as she served as chair for many terms. Her organization, enthusiasm, and team spirit were sorely missed when she left to go to DH Conley. Many years later when she returned as the instructional coach, she returned with the same enthusiasm and team spirit. She was a great asset to young teachers looking for guidance from a seasoned teacher with a vast toolbox of ideas. She was also a comfort to other experienced teachers who could rely on her to provide seamless support in all situations. Her jaguar spirit was still alive and well. 29 Years of Service Instructional Coach Farmville Central -Brad Johnston, Principal Farmville Central Service…. Cindy Cobb Cindy Cobb began her career as a Speech/Language Pathologist in August, 1983, with Pitt County Schools and has served students ranging in age from preschool to high school over her 30 year career. She has worked in 12 different schools or sites in the county and has served under 25 principals and 6 Exceptional Children’s Directors. Since 2003, she has been based at H. B. Sugg Elementary. In 1987, she was chosen Falkland’s “Teacher of the Year”. From 1996-2006, she served as the county’s Speech/Language Liaison. She is a member of the American Speech/Language and Hearing Association and the North Carolina Speech/Language and Hearing Association. Cindy is a Pitt County native and her Sugg Bundy family wishes her the best in her retirement. We will miss you! -Dr. Nicole Smith, Principal H. B. Sugg 30 Years of Service Speech Language Pathologist H.B. Sugg Inspirational… Clarissa Lee May you always have work for your hands to do. May your pockets hold always a coin or two. May the sun shine bright on your windowpane. May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain. May the hand of a friend always be near you. And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you. 29 Years of Service 5th grade Teacher Elmhurst Elementary “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires” - William Arthur Ward -Donna Gilliam, Principal Elmhurst Experimental… Connie Potter Mrs. Potter is a very kind and sweet person known as "The Worm Whisperer" of Wintergreen Intermediate. She has conducted all of the Meal Worm Experiments for the 3rd grade for many years!! What are we going to do? The worms always behaved so well for her. Her peers are also going to miss some of her famous sayings: "Are they coming to observe me today?" Do you think they will come in today?" Where is my pocketbook?", "Watch my pocketbook for me." "Do you have my pocketbook?" The fondest memory that all of us have of Connie is her luggage. She rolls out 3 suitcases every day after work and rolls them back in the next morning. Here is to using your luggage for vacation instead of papers to be graded. Best wishes on your new journey in life. -Dawn Singleton, Principal Wintergreen Intermediate 8.5 Years of Service 3rd grade Teacher Wintergreen Intermediate Ability… Dawn Singleton Mrs. Singleton was one of the first teachers that I met when I came into the profession. She was a role model then and she continues to be one today. Mrs. Singleton’s training expands across the county and probably across the state which demonstrates her ability to mold and shape the lives of others. Her knowledge of curriculum continues to amaze me and her dedication to this profession is impeccable. 29 Years of Service Principal Wintergreen Primary & Intermediate Dawn, I am honored to have been your colleague and your evaluator, but what means the most is being your friend. Good luck and I know you will continue to do great things in the field of education. You will be missed. -Dr. Delilah Jackson Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Experienced… Debby Avery Debby started and ended her “official” teaching career in a hospital setting. Thirty-eight years ago she taught at Lennox Baker Hospital in Durham. She’s spent the last 7 years teaching at PCMH, now Vidant Medical Center. In between she taught at WH Robinson and Wintergreen Primary and Intermediate Schools. She was also a Program Specialist and the LEA Representative for a Howell’s Center. Debby has been an adjunct instructor at ECU also. Debby is married to Cordell Avery. They have 2 adult children and 2 precious grandchildren. We wish Debby well as she segues into retirement. -Shirley Alpers Hospital Teacher 33 Years of Service Hospital School Teacher Vidant Hospital School Expectancy… Deborah Langley We know Mrs. Langley to be a great teacher, friend and mentor. Mrs. Langley held the highest academic and social expectations for all students. Math can be a challenging subject that causes anxiety for many students, however; it did not take long before students realized they had a patient and supportive teacher that truly desires for all of her students to succeed. She will be dearly missed! - JH Rose Administration 29.9 Years of Service 9-12 Math Teacher J. H. Rose Gentle Spirit… Dolly Hathaway Mrs. Hathaway has such a beautiful, gentle spirit. It is obvious to everyone who has ever worked with Dolly that she loves life, her family and the children she has served. Thank you, Mrs. Hathaway for your dedicated service to children and their families! -Cathy Kirkland, Principal Eastern Elementary 25 Years of Service ESL Teacher Eastern Elementary Encouraging… Donna Stuckey Mrs. Donna Stuckey served as a special education teacher at A.G. Cox. She was an extremely conscientious employee who truly loved her students. Mrs. Stuckey was firm, but fair with all of her children. She was always able to bring out the best in children and encouraged them to prepare for life in high school and beyond. Since her retirement in March, we have truly missed her smile and animated story telling. At this time, the A.G. Cox "Raider" Community, wishes her continued happiness in her retirement. 29.1 Years of Service Exceptional Children’s Teacher A. G. Cox Middle School -Tracy Cole, Principal AG Cox Knowledge… Evelyn Lenzy Mrs. Lenzy is and was affectionately known as “Miss HR.” She was the definite HR cheerleader. She could handle any situation and find humor in the worst situations. I knew if there was anything I needed to know she was the one to go to. I really appreciate her words of wisdom, her protection, and friendship. If I had any money, I would hire her to be my “Bodyguard. “ We miss you and hope you are still smiling and having fun. -Dr. Delilah Jackson Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources 40.3 Years of Service Secretary of Licensed Personnel Human Resources Reliable… Floyd Pugh “The Floor Man”… He always made the floors here shine like no one could ever believe. People would come in and say, "Who does your floors!" And with a smile, I would reply Mr. Pugh. 6 Years of Service Custodian & Bus Driver South Central High School He took pride in his work, which makes him hard to replace. He worked hard, even when physical issues came over him and he never wavered and no excuses ever were made. He will be truly missed here at South Central. -Greg MacDaid, Assistant Principal South Central High School Leadership… Geralene Bruton She did it her way. (Sinatra) Mrs. Bruton is a true leader in every sense of the word. She lead in her classroom by making sure all of her students had the tools necessary to make it in high school and in life. Mrs. Bruton is respected by her students and the community she serves. She is the living definition of a pillar of the community. -Will Sanderson, Principal Grifton School 7th/8th 24 Years of Service grade Language Arts Teacher Grifton School Songbird… Helen Uebler Mrs. Uebler has been in education for over 31 years. She started as a Teacher Assistant at Ayden Elementary. She then worked in the migrant program for the Farmville schools and then joined the Falkland staff in 1983 until she retired--devoting an amazing 29 years to our school. She was truly "Mother Falkland" teaching hundreds of students in kindergarten and giving them a solid foundation for their school success. She possessed a wonderful talent for singing that she incorporated as teaching strategy by teaching songs and chants. 31 Years of Service Kindergarten Teacher Falkland Elementary School Mrs. Uebler also wrote Falkland's school song. The halls seem so much quieter without our "songbird," Helen Mary Uebler. Mrs. Uebler was a teacher leader in the school and district serving on several committees and serving as grade chair. She was sweet spirit and would help with any tasks asked of her. She is truly missed by all, and we thank her from the bottom of our hearts for her dedication to our children, school and staff. -Shammah Barrett, Principal Falkland Legacy… James Rankins Coach Rankins has a heart of gold, and it was all for the students. He always said that the players were his priority, not the game and not the winning! His coaching style placed emphasis on the person and not the player. He embodies the true human spirit of being a caring, helpful, person that lead with dignity. He leaves behind the legacy of the “Rankins Floor” in the Rose Garden and grateful hearts! -JH Rose Administration 29 Years of Service Teacher & Coach J. H. Rose High School Support… Janice Branch After working as a nurse, Janice Branch continued a career in service as a teacher assistant at Pactolus School. She has provided valuable support to teachers and students. She has a generous, kind spirit that has put smiles on countless faces. -Betty Tolar, Principal Pactolus 6.5 Years of Service Teacher Assistant Pactolus School Collaborative… John Coleman has had a nomadic career in education. He began his teaching career in Florida and New Jersey. When he couldn’t be satisfied in the north or the south, he moved to North Carolina and began working with Pitt County Schools. John Coleman He started at EB Aycock as a teacher, but was soon moved to the Assistant Principal position. He moved on and became the Assistant Principal at CM Eppes. Not long after that, he became the Principal of South Greenville Elementary School, Grifton, AG Cox, and finally South Central High School as a principal. He moved to Central Office ,and now he’s at Elmhurst Elementary as an interim principal. John is such a rambler!!! John has moved and worked at the pleasure and needs of this district .We are forever grateful. We will miss John and wish him the very best in his retirement, and we pray that his wife can keep him in one place! -Cheryl Olmsted Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services & Programs 28 Years of Service Principal , Elmhurst District Director for High School Improvement Grant Advocate… Judy Beckert-Jones There are not enough words in the dictionary to praise Judy Beckert-Jones for her hard work and dedication to the Pitt County Schools preschool program. She has been instrumental in providing thousands of students a nurturing place to grow and become life-long learners. Judy was a strong leader, an encouraging mentor, an advocate for her staff, and most importantly, an advocate for children. Her legacy continues through the passionate teachers she has supported and inspired. She always referred to Third Street Pre-K Center as “the little school that makes a big difference”. She is remembered as the educator that made a BIG difference. -Cheryl Olmsted Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services & Programs 18 Years of Service Pre-K Site Coordinator Sadie Saulter Educational Center Friendliness… Kenneth Joyner Kent Joyner has retired this year after 30 years of service for Pitt County Schools. Kent has been the Courier for Facility Services most of his time here. All of the main office and individual school offices will miss him very much. He did a lot of little extra things to help everyone out. We at Facility Services will miss him most of all. He has been an excellent employee and good friend to many of the guys here. We wish him well in his retirement years. If you see Kent cruising around on his motorcycle be sure to give him a wave. 30 Years of Service Mail Courier Facility Services -Joseph Kernen, Maintenence Supply Supervisor Facility Services Nurturing… Kim Jessup Mrs. Jessup was like the "mother" of the 3rd grade and of Wintergreen staff. So many mornings she would bring in biscuits and say "Dear, come and get you a biscuit." "Have you had a biscuit this morning?" “Eat this biscuit, it will make you feel better." Not only did she help us with curriculum, she also made us gain weight at the same time. One of the funniest things she said was the day she walked into her classroom and her new Smart Board was mounted on the wall. This was her favorite piece of equipment. "Ok, it is time to retire when the wall is smarter than I am." After that she began to say, "This Smart Board isn't working....I'm used to ole timey teaching." Ding Dang Smart Board - Ms. Sears, come in here and help me!!" Another phrase that Kim used numerous times over the years was, "Don't tell the boss I said that" … "Is the boss coming?" Kim will be missed not only by her peers but also by many of the students that she has taught over the years. Teaching was truly her calling. Best wishes on your new journey in life. -Dawn Singleton, Principal Wintergreen Intermediate 29 Years of Service 3rd Grade Teacher Wintergreen Intermediate Trust… Laura Jones One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child. — Carl Jung Mrs. Jones recognized that in order to educate a child she must first establish a trusting relationship with them and their families. I am grateful I had an opportunity to witness and be a recipient of her warmth in teaching those around her. 32 Years of Service Exceptional Children’s Teacher G. R. Whitfield -Monica Jacobson, Principal GR Whitfield Passion… Linda Jordan It has been a privilege working with Mrs. Jordan at Ayden Elementary School. She has made a difference in the lives of many children and their families. She has also made a difference in the lives of those with whom she works. Mrs. Jordan may be retiring from her position with Pitt County Schools, but she is not retiring from working. She will continue to share her love and passion for learning with all those she meets. She is a true blessing. Congratulations, Mrs. Jordan, on your retirement! -Teresa Byrum, Principal Ayden Elementary 28 Years of Service Exceptional Children’s Teacher Assistant Ayden Elementary Kindness… Lucy Garris Mrs. Garris is one of the kindest and most nurturing people you could ever want to work with. Her smile and laugh are infectious. Her positive personality makes people smile. Everyone will miss her famous sayings: "Nobody has time for that foolishness!" "I just got to get me a moment!!" "Shewwww Lordy, I am just tired of thinking!" 15 Years of Service 3rd Grade Teacher Assistant Wintergreen Intermediate Her retirement will definitely leave big shoes to fill. Wintergreen will miss you but wishes you the best of luck on your new journey in life. -Dawn Singleton, Principal Wintergreen Intermediate Commitment… Lynwood Horne Mr. Lynwood Horne was very enthusiastic about his responsibilities as a custodian at Farmville Central. His dedication and commitment to the job will be tremendously missed. He always had a big smile on his face and he worked tirelessly to make sure that the school was the cleanest in Pitt County. -Brad Johnston, Principal Farmville Central 6 Years of Service Custodian Farmville Central Generosity… Margie Perkins Mrs. Perkins is a kind, generous and dependable person. She has the ability to warm the hearts of others with her sweetness. She loved her job and took it seriously by always doing her part. We thought of her as the Energizer Bunny because she just kept going and going. She will be missed by the North Pitt staff. We will never find another Margie Perkins. -Bridget Tyson, Child Nutrition Manager North Pitt High School 18 Years of Service Child Nutrition North Pitt High School Role model… Marie Lewis Marie embodies the true human spirit: dignity, caring, helpfulness, friendliness and leadership. Marie has influenced students by helping them to utilize their leadership skills. She has inspired students throughout Pitt County by introducing new role models and a desire to read through the “Dream Team” experience. Marie comes off as tough, but what we and students know is that she’s just a marshmallow. - JH Rose Administration 29 Years of Service Math Teacher & Coach J.H. Rose Patience… Michele Lee Mrs. Lee has been a dedicated employee at Wahl-Coates for 22 years. With her strong classroom management and patience, she is able to turn our "at risk" students into success stories. We are happy for her but sad for WahlCoates. WE LOVE YOU MRS. LEE!! -Chena Cayton, Principal Wahl-Coates 30 Years of Service 2nd grade Teacher Wahl-Coates Elementary Consistent… Pamela Little Mrs. Little is one of the most patient, kind and nurturing teachers you could ever want to meet. Her love for her students was evident daily in her classroom. She always sent out "meeting reminders" so everyone knew where they were supposed to be. She never failed to always tell folks, "Have a good one!" When she was confused or frustrated, she would throw up her hands and say, "Oh my goodness!!" Pam is a woman of very strong faith. She works tirelessly for her church and touches many young lives with the summer youth camps she is in charge of. The one thing she will never have to worry about again is scheduling an IEP meeting. She never scheduled them on a Friday because that was her standing hair appointment day. She didn't know that all of Wintergreen knew that. Wintergreen wishes you well on your new journey in life. -Dawn Singleton, Principal Wintergreen 29 Years of Service Exceptional Children’s Teacher Wintergreen Primary Devotion… Patricia Darden Ms. Darden has devoted 20+ years to public education. As a graduate of Mount Olive College, Ms. Darden has devoted many years to the Pitt County School System and H. B. Sugg School. Teachers who work with her will say "you can't ask for a better TA." Ms. Darden does not hesitate to go above and beyond. She is conscientious, selfdriven, and takes initiative to simply get things done for children. We honor Ms. Patricia Darden and say thank you for always putting children first! 18 Years of Service Teacher Assistant H. B. Sugg -Dr. Nicole Smith ,Principal HB Sugg Understanding… Pearlie Dixon Although she may be small in stature she is a strong-willed woman that has put her faith totally in God's hands. Mrs. Dixon is a hardworking woman that is very direct, but understanding. She believes in treating everyone with love and kindness, but also lets them know when she feels they are out of line. From safely transporting students to and from school to maintaining the up keep of the building, you can always count on Mrs. Dixon. Her hard work and dedication to serving faculty, staff, and students at Wellcome is well appreciated and will be missed. -Maurice Harris, Principal Wellcome 20.5 Years of Service Bus Driver/Custodian Wellcome Dependable… Peggy Elks Mrs. Elks has always been on time and very dependable. She established great relationships with the staff and students. She always told great jokes and stories in the cafeteria and she especially loved getting her hugs from the children first thing in the morning. Her smile and great personality will surely be missed in the Wintergreen cafeteria for many years to come. We wish you the best on your new journey in life, and we send you off with much love from Wintergreen Primary. 7 Years of Service Child Nutrition Assistant Manager Wintergreen Primary -Dawn Singleton, Principal Wintergreen Primary Creativity… Rebecca Thomas The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance. -Aristotle Mrs. Thomas looked beyond the face of children and into their hearts. She used this to help create “masterpieces” to go forth into the world! -Dr. Lionel Kato, Ed.D. Farmville Middle 10 Years of Service Art Teacher Farmville Middle School Eagerness… Richard Mercer Rev. Richard Mercer started his journey at Farmville Central in 2002. Rev. Mercer has been a joy to work with and his award winning personality was welcomed by all of his colleagues and the students. You could always get an encouraging word from him as he took pride in his work as a custodian and as a bus driver. There was never a dull moment with him around and he was always eager and ready to do whatever was asked of him. -Brad Johnston, Principal Farmville Central 11 Years of Service Bus Driver/Custodian Farmville Central Authentic… Sandy Matthews The best teachers teach from the heart, not from the book. — Author Unknown Ms. Matthew's dedication is responsible for productive adults, hopeful children and grateful parents. She gives her all to her students each day by providing a classroom where they can thrive. Ms. Matthew's also makes sure that students are cared for and safe outside of school. We stand and applaud her as an inspiration to all of us...students and teachers alike. 32 Years of Service 8th Grade Math/ScienceTeacher Ayden Middle School -Jeff Theus, Principal Ayden Middle School Expertise… Sandra Jones Sandra Jones came to Pitt County just a few short years ago. Pitt County was fortunate to benefit from Sandra’s expertise and willingness to work hard, even though she was able to retire at the time she came to us. In her two short years here, she managed to implement the largest assessment process ever to be implemented in Pitt County aside from the state assessments. We are grateful to have had her more than capable assistance during this trying time, and we wish her well in her restful retirement years. SMILE: We know she’s already working again! 1.8 Years of Service Director K-8 Curriculum and Instruction -Cheryl Olmsted Assistant Superintendent Educational Programs & Services Determined… Sharon Kinsley "Did Sharon tell you recently that she's retiring?...Has Sharon told you lately that she's retiring?...By the way, Sharon's retiring!" -Carla Frinsko, Principal Creekside 15 Years of Service 4th Grade Teacher Creekside Elementary School Genuine… Susan Ward “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give” -Norman MacEswan Ms. Susie Ward has taught at Northwest for four years. She taught fourth grade for two years, one year in Reading Recovery, and one year in kindergarten. She has served on various committees throughout the school. Her dedication and service to students at Northwest is truly appreciated. She will be missed. -Dennis Teel, Principal Northwest 11 Years of Service Kindergarten Teacher Northwest Elementary School Purpose… Sylvia Steele "Real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love."~David McCullough We are fortunate that Sylvia found her love in teaching and caring for her students at Lakeforest. -Lavette Ford, Principal Lakeforest 11 Years of Service Kindergarten Teacher Northwest Elementary School Loyalty… Vera Goode Mrs. Goode served as my right hand for many years. She is the “Goldest” administrative assistant I have ever known. Her professionalism and attention to detail was just what I needed as a new HR Director. As I grew into this job, she was right by my side. There will never be another like her. I am still amazed how you knew what I was thinking before I even told you. I can see that you have left those traits in others as well. I know you called during Teacher of the Year That’s my Ms. Vera. We miss you and I hope that you are shopping. 7 Years of Service Human Resources Specialist -Dr. Delilah Jackson Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Guidance… Vicky Mizelle Vicky Mizell has served as a role model for Pactolus students and staff. She has dedicated her career to guiding children toward academic and social success. She has added special touches at Pactolus School that make our staff feel like a family. -Betty Tolar, Principal Pactolus 30 Years of Service Teacher Assistant Pactolus School FOREVER STARS PITT COUNTY SCHOOLS PRESENTS… “FOREVER STARS”