School system honors top rookie teachers

Teachers, principals, Parkway Bank employees and others gathered Thursday at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center to recognize the achievements of some of Caldwell County's first-year teachers. The nominees, along with their friends and families, anxiously awaited the announcement of this year's winners.

“This is my favorite time to celebrate,” said Adrienne Dula, professional development coordinator for Caldwell County Schools. “You've made it.”

As she reminisced about her days in the classroom, Dula emphasized the importance of the role of first-year teachers in the learning development of their students.

Three years ago, Dula's suggestion that new teachers should be recognized for that role developed into the Outstanding Rookie of the Year Award.

This year, Parkway Bank was more than willing to assist with the teacher recognition, and it helped to expand it into two awards for elementary and secondary divisions. Each recipient was awarded a plaque and a check for $1,000.

Kim Kincaid, board chair for the Parkway Bank of Lenoir, inspired the audience with her words before presenting the first award in the elementary division.

“It's a fabulous career you've embarked upon,” she said. “We really struggled, and it was not easy to come up with our winner.”

The recipient of the Rookie of the Year Award in the elementary division was Jennifer Baker of Sawmills Elementary School.

“I just want to give a special thanks to my colleagues at Sawmills School for making my year really great,” Baker said as she received applause by the audience.

The Rookie Award in the secondary division was presented by Jim Sponenberg, president and CEO of Parkway Bank of Lenoir, to Jake Sigman of South Caldwell High School.

“I've had a blast this first year,” Sigman said. “I didn't know how attached I would get to the students that I taught.”

Humoring the audience with personal stories of growing up in a family of teachers, Sponenberg provided the nominees with encouragement and gratitude.

“I don't know that you'll ever get the recognition that you deserve,” he said. “I want you to know I appreciate who you are and what you do. Thank you very much.”

Dr. Steve Stone, Caldwell County Schools superintendent, closed the ceremony with appreciation for all teachers present by stating, “Being a teacher is a challenge.”

“I congratulate you, and we're very proud of you all,” he said. “Thank you for making a difference in all our children's lives.”

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