Blount County Schools last week honored dozens of employees whom Director David Murrell described as the “backbone” of the district.
They are the people who drive school buses, prepare meals, keep the buildings clean and in working order, assist the teachers, care for students when they are ill, help with homework after school and fill numerous other roles across a dozen categories.
BCS named Gavin Williams, a special education instructional assistant at Union Grove Elementary School as its Employee of the Year, during the 7th Annual Go Be Excellent Celebration, April 25 at Smithview Pavilion in Maryville.
Williams works in classroom for students who may have experienced trauma and who have trouble with behavior in a regular classroom. He told The Daily Times in an interview after the ceremony that he enjoys being a mentor and positive influence, working with them on social and emotional skills.
“I come from a big family, and I always enjoyed being the big brother and helping out with my siblings,” he said.
Williams said he has been doing the job for three years and still loves it. Principal Kristy Brewer said she has been encouraging Williams to consider becoming a teacher. She said he is a calm presence in what can sometimes seem like chaos and is a “gentle giant” who connects with students throughout the school.
“Every day is an adventure,” Williams said of his job in the classroom, and he says the students know that no matter what happens, the adults there are not going to give up on them.
Although they are not direct employees of BCS, substitute teachers, bus drivers and — for the first time — school resource officers were honored at the event, along with nine other categories of staff members.
The event was sponsored by the Tennessee Education Association, the staffing company ESS, and the Tennessee Principals Association.
Most Popular
Comments / 0