2024-25 SHINING STARS

Congratulations to Michelle McBride, Principal of Pocalla Springs Elementary School! Michelle's leadership is characterized by her commitment to the success and well-being of her students and staff. Her dependability and keen observational skills enable her to identify the needs of her school and address them effectively. As a principal, she has implemented innovative programs that have significantly improved student outcomes. For example, she spearheaded a mentorship program that pairs struggling students with staff mentors, resulting in improved academic performance and increased student engagement.

Beyond her role as a principal, she is deeply rooted in her community. As the wife of a pastor and mother to two successful daughters, she balances her professional responsibilities with her personal life seamlessly. Her ability to maintain this balance while excelling in her professional role is a testament to her exceptional organizational and time-management skills.

Her positive attitude and sense of humor create a welcoming and supportive school environment. She believes in the power of positivity and regularly shares uplifting messages to inspire both students and staff. This practice has fostered a culture of encouragement and motivation within the school, contributing to a positive and productive atmosphere.

One of her most notable achievements is her dedication to professional development. She encourages her staff to pursue continuous learning and provides opportunities for them to grow in their careers. Her commitment to professional growth extends to herself as well; she regularly attends workshops and conferences to stay abreast of the latest educational trends and practices.

Her impact extends beyond the academic sphere. She is actively involved in community service projects, encouraging her students and staff to participate in initiatives that benefit the local community. Her leadership in these projects not only strengthens the bond between the school and the community but also instills a sense of civic responsibility in her students.

Congratulations to Leslie Dowling from Lemira Elementary School!  Leslie's dedication, leadership, and commitment to the educational community have left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to work alongside her. Over the course of nine years, she has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, integrity, and innovation in her role. Her tireless efforts have not only enhanced the educational experience of students but have also enriched the professional growth of her colleagues. Her ability to inspire, motivate, and empower aspiring administrators is a testament to her innate leadership qualities. She understands the importance of mentorship in cultivating the next generation of educational leaders.

Her leadership extends beyond mentoring, as she consistently goes above and beyond to support students, teachers, and staff alike. She fosters a culture of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration, where every individual feels valued and supported in their pursuit of excellence. Her approachable demeanor and genuine compassion create an environment where students feel safe to express themselves, teachers feel empowered to innovate, and staff feel appreciated for their contributions.

One of her most remarkable qualities is her desire for innovative initiatives that drive positive change within the school community. Whether it's implementing new technology to enhance learning outcomes, spearheading community outreach programs to support underserved populations, or championing initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, she is always at the forefront of progress.

Congratulations to Felisha Martin-Bell from Furman Middle School. Felisha was nominated for her exceptional dedication and commitment as a registrar. Her role extends far beyond merely managing paperwork; she serves as the cornerstone of the school community, forming the first crucial relationship with parents and students and maintaining a positive and connected bond. She takes the time to answer questions, address concerns, and provide reassurance, ensuring that families feel valued and supported right from the start.

Throughout the year, she goes above and beyond to maintain strong connections with parents, students, and teachers alike. Through regular updates, newsletters, or face-to-face meetings, she ensures that everyone feels heard and involved in the school community. Her proactive approach fosters trust and collaboration, ultimately enhancing the overall educational experience for students.

One of her most notable contributions is her unwavering commitment to supporting students in positive decision-making. Whether it's offering resources for academic support, facilitating discussions on goal setting and self-improvement, or simply lending a compassionate ear, she empowers students to make informed choices and navigate challenges with confidence. In addition to her role as registrar, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of school events. With her keen organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, she ensures that every aspect of an event is carefully planned and executed for efficiency and warmth. She approaches her work with a positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile to support others.

Congratulations to Kristin Hackett who serves our schools as a physical therapist. Kristen has 25 plus years in the school district and demonstrates excellence in service on a daily basis. She is committed to being a team player and dedicated to putting the needs of her students first. She has been a role model to the rest of her therapy team in her skills with communication, organization of services for the students, and helping to solve problems that they all may encounter. Through her leadership and team collaboration, she has inspired her team to be better and work to make Sumter School District the best it can be for all of our students. She is dedicated and often works outside of school hours to make the necessary preparations for IEP meetings, Medicaid billing, supervisory visits, coworker communication, and much more. She has made an impact in her students' lives and in all of her coworkers' lives through her positive attitude and commitment to serve those in need.