BCSD Recognizes October's Pursuit of Excellence Winners

The Pursuit of Excellence award is presented to employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations can be made by BCSD employees, students, parents and community members. The nomination form can be found on our website under the Human Resources Department tab.

Congratulations to the following employees who are the October 2025 Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients.

Lauren Birston

School Counselor at Midway Hills Academy

Ms. Birston is working in her second year as School Counselor at Midway Hills Academy School. She has worked a total of 5 years with the Baldwin County School district. Ms. Birston was nominated by her principal, Terri Carty.

Mrs. Carty had the following to say, “Ms. Birston consistently goes above and beyond her role as school counselor to support the success of all students, staff, and families at Midway Hills Academy. Her commitment to our school community exemplifies excellence in both service and leadership.

Ms. Birston tirelessly advocates for students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being. She ensures that each child feels seen, supported, and valued, whether by providing individual counseling, leading small groups, or implementing schoolwide initiatives that promote a positive climate. Her ability to connect with students helps them build confidence and resilience, which directly contributes to their success in the classroom and beyond. In addition to supporting students, Mrs. Birston is an essential resource for teachers and staff. Her dedication to supporting staff well-being is evident in the way she checks in on teachers and helps foster a caring, collaborative culture at MHA.

Equally important is her outreach to families. Mrs. Birston builds trusting relationships with parents and guardians by keeping lines of communication open and ensuring they feel welcomed and supported as partners in their children’s education. She is often the first to step in when families face challenges, connecting them to resources and offering encouragement with compassion and professionalism. Mrs. Birston’s work reflects the highest standards of excellence. She consistently demonstrates empathy, initiative, and commitment that go well beyond the expectations of her role.

Because of her dedication, countless students and families at Midway Hills Academy have experienced stability, encouragement, and hope.”

Ms. Birston, thank you for being the epitome of excellence!

Dr. Collinda Lee

Special Education Coordinator for Psychological Services

Dr. Lee is working in her thirtieth year with the Baldwin County School District. She currently works at the Special Education Coordinator for Psychological Services. Dr. Lee was nominated by her supervisor, Michelle O’Gorman Maurer.

Mrs. O’Gorman Maurer had the following to say, “Dr. Lee has transitioned to supporting the district psychological services this school year and we do not know what we did without her. She actively communicates with school staff and parents to help ensure paperwork is received so students can move forward with receiving evaluations. If there is a barrier, she is going to find a way to support the family or teacher. She follows up with teachers to check in on how students are doing and works with families to support their needs.

She goes above the call of duty to help get results for students. She is student focused and she cares about their future. This year, her role is expanding to helping with evaluations and we can't wait to see the support she will provide and how she will continue supporting our students. “ Dr. Lee, thank you for being a shining example of excellence!