BCSD APRIL 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 Troy Nelson, Dietrich Russell, Sharon Reeves and Dr. Wanda Stewart who are the April 2024 Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients for the Baldwin County School District.
Troy Nelson
Instructional Coach at Baldwin High School
Troy Nelson is working in his fourth year for the Baldwin County School District. Mr. Nelson currently works as an Instructional Coach at Baldwin High School.
Mr. Nelson was nominated by his assistant principal, Tyiesha Oliver and colleagues, Dr. Marya Ray and Kristin Grebel. Ms. Oliver had the following to say, “Mr. Nelson is an exceptional instructional coach at Baldwin High School. In his first year in this new position in a new building, he has already established himself as one of the “go to people” at Baldwin High School. He goes above and beyond to help out in every capacity. No request is too big or too small. Whether it's covering a class, helping with testing, emergency drills, getting students to class, covering duty, or showing up with a positive attitude, Mr. Nelson is the man. When faced with any problem, he responds with a smile and a positive attitude. His solution-orientated attitude is infectious and Baldwin High School is lucky to have him as a part of the team.”
Dr. Marya Ray had the following to say, “Mr. Nelson goes above and beyond to support his teachers. He ensures we have any resource we need. Mr. Nelson seeks to develop and continue positive relationships with students. He is always seeking ways to improve the learning of our students.”
Kristin Grebel had the following to say, “Mr. Nelson has been a ray of light since the start of my first year at Baldwin. He was very helpful during New Teacher Orientation and continues to be a solid sounding board and support throughout my year. While he is not my direct "Coach," he is always more than happy to help when I pop in with concerns or questions. He was instrumental in helping me implement several things for my classroom to make my day run smoother and was able to navigate me through some student issues I had as I adapted my classroom management plans. He has even been helpful as I work through earning my MAT with giving me feedback on topic areas. Mr. Nelson is always smiling, polite, and friendly in the halls, and is never dismissive when I need help or advice. I am grateful for him and his support this first year. He truly is always pursuing excellence at Baldwin High School!”
Mr. Nelson, thank you for being the epitome of excellence!
Dietrich Russell
Behavior Specialist at Midway Hills Academy
Dietrich Russell is working in her fourth year for the Baldwin County School District. Mrs. Russell currently works as a Behavior Specialist at Midway Hills Academy.
Mrs. Russell was nominated by her principal, Terri Carty. Mrs. Carty had the following to say, “Excellence is a concept that goes beyond merely meeting expectations, it encompasses a commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and achieving the highest possible standards. Mrs. Russell models excellence everyday, which is why she is nominated for the Pursuit of Excellence.
Mrs. Russell is the behavior specialist at Midway Hills Academy. She leads our school with our PBIS expectations, making sure both students and staff are aware of expectations. She understands that behavior tells a story and she listens to our students' stories. Through those stories, she builds relationships, trust and faith. She is fair and consistent. Mrs. Russell understands the importance of being in class. This is why you might see her taking a break with a student, pushing into a classroom or conferencing...but our end goal is to have our students in the classroom.
It has been a great privilege to get to know Mrs. Russell this year at Midway Hills Academy, her positivity and excellence shine every day.”
Mrs. Russell, thank you for being a shining example of excellence!
Sharon Reeves
Agriculture Teacher at Oak Hill Middle School
Sharon Reeves is working in her sixth year for the Baldwin County School district. She currently works as the Agriculture Teacher at Oak Hill Middle School.
Mrs. Reeves was nominated by her colleague, Nickolas Geeker. Mr. Geeker had the following to say, “I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Sharon Reeves for the Pursuit of Excellence Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field of Agriculture and Biotechnology. Sharon's dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her students make her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious honor. Throughout her tenure, Sharon has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled level of engagement with her students. Her passion for teaching and mentorship shines through in every interaction, fostering an environment where students feel inspired to excel and explore the intricacies of Agriculture and Biotechnology.
What truly sets Sharon apart is her profound impact on the social and emotional growth of her students. She goes above and beyond to create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Sharon's mentorship extends beyond the classroom, instilling confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning in her students.
Sharon's tireless efforts have not only enriched the academic experiences of her students but have also left a lasting impression on their personal and professional lives. Her unwavering dedication to excellence serves as a beacon of inspiration for both her colleagues and students alike.
In light of Sharon's outstanding contributions to the field of Agriculture and Biotechnology, I wholeheartedly endorse her nomination for the Pursuit of Excellence Award. Her passion, commitment, and genuine concern for the well-being and growth of her students make her an exemplary candidate for this esteemed recognition.”
Mrs. Reeves, thank you for being a model of excellence!
Dr. Wanda Stewart
Early Learning Center Director
Dr. Wanda Stewart is working in her second year for the Baldwin County School District. She is the Director of the Early Learning Center.
Dr. Stewart was nominated by her staff members, Berinda Turk, Alice Lewis, Cynthia Mosely and Stephanie Wright. Ms. Turk had the following to say, “What a difference a year makes. In the time that Dr. Stewart has been the Director at the ELC, the climate has changed for the better. The employees seem to be happier and thriving under her leadership. She leads with passion and has a sincere desire to improve the following for the ELC: instructional practices, safety procedures, and the communication with all staff and families. She also encourages all staff to be leaders within the school community. She encourages us to focus on the children and families we serve. She definitely leads by example. She has demonstrated her commitment and dedication to the ELC and the Baldwin County School District within this year that she has been with us. I am honored to work under her leadership where I can continue to grow as an Educator.”
Ms. Lewis had the following to say, “I am thankful to have Dr. Wanda Stewart at the ELC. A woman of integrity who leads with style and grace. She is soft spoken and mild tempered but is committed to the children and staff members. “
Ms. Mosley had the following to say, “Dr. Stewart has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Early Learning Center. She works well with the children and families that we serve in the Baldwin County School District. She has a warm and calm demeanor that promotes a positive work environment. She greets the children each morning with a smile and a pleasant good morning. Dr. Stewart also looks for the best in the employees under her supervision. She strongly encourages each staff member to learn and grow and gives guidance and direction to help staff reach their full potential. Dr. Stewart is truly a great asset to the ELC and the district.”
Mrs. Wright had the following to say, “Dr. Wanda Stewart is setting high expectations for our students and educators. Dr. Stewart is not afraid to get in the trenches with her staff. As director, she has shaped the conditions for our teachers and students to learn and succeed. She leads by example. She remains calm in adversity and always speaks calmly and softly to the parents and staff. She is very attentive and always has a listening ear for the staff. I am forever grateful for your impact on this school; keep up the great work! You are a director whose legacy will be remembered fondly"
Dr. Stewart, thank you for being a model of excellence!