Vidalia BOE Recognizes Teachers of the Year
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The Vidalia City Schools Board of Education honored the system’s Teacher of the Year awardees at the Board’s regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 10.
Before allowing each principal to speak on his or her school’s Teacher of the Year, Superintendent Sandy Reid commented on the occasion. “This is one of my most favorite things that I was able to do as a principal every year [during my time at J.R. Trippe Middle School], because teachers and staff members at the school never get the recognition that they deserve for the heart and soul that they put into what they do every day, and the way they work tirelessly to pour into these kids, their families, and our community. These teachers, and the teachers they represent – they are the reason we live in a community as great as Vidalia. So, as a community member, as a superintendent, and as a parent, thank you,” she emphasized.
Reid also spoke to the family members, friends, and coworkers of the honorees who were attending the meeting. “We can’t do anything without the support of the family. I know personally the sacrifices my own family has made for this job, and have done so willingly because they recognize the importance of it. {We also can’t do anything without] the sacrifice of your teammates, who are constantly pouring into you and how you perform and work with our students every day,” she remarked.
J.D. Dickerson Primary School J.D. Dickerson Primary School Principal Charlene Norfleet introduced her school’s awardee first, and emphasized her admiration of the teacher. “When I think of [Pre-K Teacher] Delana [Humphrey], a few words immediately come to mind – words like ‘dedicated,’ ‘passionate,’ ‘devoted,’ ‘heartfelt,’ ‘sincere.’ These are not just my words; these are the words of her colleagues, who have seen her in action from dayto- day, work closely with her, and are ‘boots on the ground’ right alongside her every single day,” she told the attendees.
Norfleet also shared sentiments submitted by Humphrey’s colleagues, which highlighted her excellence inside and outside the classroom.
Anita Taylor wrote: “Delana is a wonderful friend and coworker who is always willing to help.’ And that is so true. Whether it’s helping a colleague with a student, or just being a listening ear, Delana is always there.”
Meanwhile, Caroline Coursey shared a memory of first meeting Humphrey. “The day [I] had [my] interview at J.D. Dickerson [Primary School], [I] knew [I] would get along with Delana because short, blonde people stick together,” she said. “Delana has a quiet, reserved nature, but with passion and joy for teaching that shines through every word and action. Her hard work, positive attitude, and genuine care make her an invaluable part of our work place.”
Coursey added, “Delana is a person who notices when her pre-k family needs support. Whether it’s finding a private corner to cry, building someone’s confidence, offering a hug to those who like hugs, or sharing a silly story to brighten someone’s day, Delana is always there for them.”
Gail Johnson shared, “Delana has a warm and sweet personality. She will go out of her way to help anyone; not just her colleagues, but her students and their families, too. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with her over the years. She is an awesome friend.”
Norfleet then turned to address Humphrey. “Delana, you embody the best part of what it means to be a teacher. Your kindness, your dedication, and your unwavering support for your students, their families, and your colleagues have been a significant part of who you are. You have impacted all of us in the way that you deal with us each day. You are a big part of J.D. Dickerson Primary School, and it’s clear why you have been named Teacher of the Year,” she concluded.
Sally D. Meadows Elementary School Sally D. Meadows Elementary School Principal Brandon Boston began recognizing his school’s Teacher of the Year Julie Spivey by emphasizing her devotion to the district, as she has taught for 29 years at Sally D. Meadows Elementary School – 23 of which she has been teaching in 5th grade. During these years, eight principals and 11 assistant principals have led Spivey.
Boston remarked, “Two words come to mind: perseverance and commitment. She perseveres through all of those changes, and she comes committed every single day to our kids, our school system, and our community.”
He welcomed Spivey’s co-teacher Fran Brantley to the podium to speak on Spivey’s dedication and excellence in her daily work in the classroom.
“There is something special about watching someone who not only loves teaching, but also lives it. Whether it was coaching cheerleading, teaching social studies, teaching English Language Arts, or getting immersed in a science lab with her students, Julie embodies what it means to be an educator and to represent the V (Vidalia),” Brantley began. “Julie inspires us all by the way that she approaches her work, her students, and this entire community. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Julie work her magic in the classroom. She’s not just teaching lessons – she’s shaping the future, igniting curiosity, and cultivating an environment where every student feels valued and capable.”
She continued, “What stands out most to me [about Julie] is the passion that Julie brings to her students. She has a unique ability to connect with her students on a personal level. That connection goes beyond the curriculum – it’s about believing in their potential, even when they may not believe in themselves.”
Brantley then turned to address Spivey. “Julie, as colleagues, we are constantly inspired by your enthusiasm and commitment. You make us want to be better educators. Your ability to collaborate, your willingness to share resources and ideas, and your open door to anyone in need of advice, support, or just a room to vent after a long day reflects the true spirit of collaboration. You remind us that this profession is not about working in isolation, but about lifting each other up so that we can all be the best for our students. You have not only impacted your students, but you have had a profound influence on all of us, especially me. Your leadership, your compassion, and your unwavering dedication have made our school a better place. Today, we celebrate you, not just for this award that you rightfully deserve, but for the way you live with grace, humility, and excellence. You have made a difference, and that difference will ripple through your students and colleagues forever.”
Spivey reacted to the honor, “I’ve been here a long time. I wouldn’t be anywhere else. I wholeheartedly believe in Vidalia City Schools. I’ve never worked with a group of people that wholeheartedly fight for our kids [like them]. So, it’s an honor to receive this.”
J.R. Trippe Middle School When introducing J.R. Trippe Middle School Teacher of the Year Alton McCloud – also known as “Coach Al” to his students – Principal Eric McDonald emphasized the teacher’s ability to connect with his students. “Coach Al is the true definition of a teacher that goes above and beyond. Coach Al is the master of building relationships – students and coworkers love him, and he’s an awesome teammate. He not only knows his content, but knows the importance of meeting kids where they are and giving them what they need to be successful,” McDonald began. “He truly understands that teaching extends beyond the classroom. He is willing to help students, yet never hesitates to hold them accountable. The way he works with our Young Gentleman’s Club, teaching our most at-risk young men that they are valuable, but are held to a higher standard, is an example of his pouring into students what has obviously been instilled in him through his family.”
The principal continued, “His humility and great character are always on display. Most of these characteristics are exemplified in his statement when he received this award. He stated, ‘Being recognized as Teacher of the Year is so special, and such an amazing accomplishment. I cannot find the words to express my gratitude to my students, colleagues, and administrators for their encouragement, recognition, and support. I am most grateful to God – without Him, none of this is possible. I’m so blessed to receive an award. ‘ ” McDonald then turned to address the honoree, commenting, “Coach, you’re a blessing to us every day, and you’re a true example of a Chief.”
McCloud shared his gratitude for the award. “Thank you for the love and support from all of you, especially all of my co-teachers. I really appreciate it. It is a big accomplishment, so I don’t take it for granted,” he told the audience.
Vidalia High School According to Vidalia High School Principal Bruce Mulkey, the school’s Teacher of the Year Silvia Riley combines a unique skill set and enthusiasm for teaching that is rare in today’s society.
“I learned recently that Mrs. Riley has been teaching and been at Vidalia High School for 18 years. I was shocked to learn that because she brings the energy and enthusiasm of a new teacher to work every day. What we do is not easy work, and change can be difficult, especially for high school teachers, but Mrs. Riley has embraced some things that we have challenged our teachers to do – not only has she embraced it, but she has been a leader,” he told the audience.
Mulkey continued, “She is skilled as a veteran teacher. I have watched her do work on her collaborative team, and I’ve watched how her work has impacted another team in our building that she has no relation with because of what her team accomplished. That’s what she brings to the table every day – not only being a role model, but an influencer, and that’s the greatest compliment any of us can receive is to be looked at that way by our peers.”
He spoke of his own experience with Riley, saying she had taught his children. “She loves all kids the same way. I know this first hand; she has taught both of my kids. My oldest son cannot stand English, and Mrs. Riley’s class was a challenge for him, but I know she loved on him the way she loves all of our kids. I also know that sometimes that means tough love,” he said.
The principal shared that the extent of Riley’s kindness and care for her students was most recently displayed as she agreed to teach two courses in one block because of a unique challenge which a student was dealing with. “Because of the hardship it was creating for that student, Mrs. Riley didn’t even blink. That’s why she’s a great representative of our school system,” he told the audience.
“I want to say first thank you to God for blessing me to be here and be a leader, and just impact these students’ lives,” Riley reacted, as she thanked everyone who had an impact on her life.
Riley also thanked Superintendent Reid, who she said helped to mentor her when she decided to transition from teaching special education to English around 18 years ago. “Thank you, Dr. Reid, for believing in me,” she remarked.
Action Items
During the business portion of the meeting, the Board authorized the purchase of a weapons detection system from CEIA USA for $78,372 to further improve safety protocol on the district’s campuses.
Board members also voted to enact several policy changes and a few new policies, which were first introduced during last month’s meeting. These policies included: VBOE Policy CEI: Superintendent Evaluation – aligns the district’s superintendent evaluation with the outlined district goals and improvement plan VBOE Policy GARH: Employee Leaves and Absences (Revision) – increases paid parental leave from 120 hours per year to 240 hours per year VBOE Policy JCEB: Student Hearing Procedure (Revision) – limits student hearing extensions to less than 15 days after the beginning of the student’s suspension unless a parent has submitted a written request to the school system and states that the school will provide school-appropriate work for the student while the student waits for the scheduled hearing VBOE Policy JK: Solicitations – limits fundraising opportunities to the control of the school and district, and states that the donors choose online crowdfunding (placement of needs online in order to secure donations to meet those needs) website will be allowed VBOE Policy DFK: Gifts and Regulations – deletes the former guidelines for gifts; states that all donations to further operating or upkeep costs for the district must be approved by the Board of Education; allows each school principal to accept or deny gifts or donations made to individual schools from any source, including booster clubs; requires all monetary donations made through crowdfunding to come to school in the form of a check addressed to the school rather than an individual person; requires all online fundraising to be approved by the Board; requires a file to be maintained for online fundraisers Three overnight field trips were approved by the Board; these trips include the Vidalia High School One Act Play team’s trip to Gainesville on October 16-19, the Vidalia High School Technology Student Association’s trip to Jekyll Island on November 8-10, and the Vidalia High School HOSA Future Healthcare Workers Organization’s trip to Athens on November 14-15.
Upcoming Events
Superintendent Sandy Reid informed the Board of two upcoming events: the Vidalia Voices community performance and the upcoming Board luncheon meeting.
On Thursday, September 19, the Vidalia High School singing group, Vidalia Voices, will perform for the community. The singers will be accompanied by music from the school’s new grand piano, which the Board purchased last school year for the Fine Arts Department. The event will begin at 7 p.m. in the Vidalia High School Theatre, and entry will cost $10 at the door. Semi-formal or business attire is preferred. Attendees will be able to meet performers after the show during a reception held outside the theatre.
The Vidalia City Schools Board of Education held its monthly luncheon meeting at J.R. Trippe Middle School on September 17, allowing the Board to see the school and learn more about its operations.
