Alcoa City Schools celebrates top employees

The 4th Annual Alcoa City Schools Employee Excellence Banquet and Awards, held April 18 at the high school, honored certified and classified employees working in every building.

From Alcoa Elementary School, guidance counselor Lisa Williamson was called a “shining example of servant leadership,” in the event program. Bus driver and prekindergarten paraprofessional Sharon Howard “ensures every child feels cherished and valued.”

At Alcoa Intermediate School, teacher Hope McDonald plays “a critical role in establishing a positive and productive culture within her grade level and our school,” her recognition said. For special education paraprofessional Katie Ritchey, kindness isn’t just a strength but a “superpower,” according to ACS.

Alcoa Middle School sixth grade science teacher Adrienne Adderhold ensures students have “firsthand nature experience in the Smoky Mountains.” Paraprofessional Lori Jorgenson has not only helped encourage students in the library but also stepped in to lead teaching positions for staff members on leave.

Alcoa High School’s Taylor Brown is “an extraordinarily gifted math teacher and coach” who “flat out gets results,” according to ACS. Mark Anderson has been a “utility player” at the high school, not only managing Chromebook programming but also serving as instructor of a student tech team.

Alcoa’s Educator Support Center Employee of the Year is Assistant Director Kim Hawkins, who also serves as director of testing, assessment and accountability. She was recognized as a passionate educator with an “unwavering commitment to excellence” who “leads with a no-nonsense approach.”

ACS also recognized five teachers for 25 years of service: Julie Meyers, Lon Fox, Crystel Smith, Sam Thomas and Minda Cedeno.

Mark Paulley was honored as Alcoa’s Substitute Teacher of the Year.

The event was sponsored by attorney John Owings and Owings, Wilson & Coleman, the law firm that represents the district.