2025 Employee Excellence Awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lisa is an invaluable member of Alcoa Elementary School, and her dedication and passion for her role makes a lasting impact on both students and staff. She always has a warm, welcoming presence, and helps create a supportive and engaging environment in the library where students can explore their love of reading and learning. She goes above and beyond to assist with all things library, fosters literacy, and provides personalized support to students, ensuring they have the resources and guidance they need to succeed. Each year, she’s able to bring the One Book Blitz book to life in the library, creating a decorative scene for students to really dive into the text and bring it to life. Lisa’s commitment to nurturing all students and her unwavering support of the mission of Alcoa Elementary make her a deserving recipient of this recognition. Her hard work, kindness, and tireless contributions are truly appreciated by all.

 

 

 

 

Chrissy Jones is the heartbeat of AIS, bringing warmth, organization, and an unwavering sense of positivity to everyone who walks through our doors. As our front office receptionist, she seamlessly manages countless responsibilities, often performing more like a school manager than simply the first point of contact. Her energy is contagious, and her ability to handle any situation with grace, efficiency, and a friendly smile makes her truly irreplaceable. Whether she’s offering a warm greeting, providing direction, or sharing a much-needed laugh, Chrissy sets the tone for a welcoming and supportive school environment. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Chrissy possesses a rare gift—the ability to make people feel truly seen and valued. She has a way of dissolving stress, frustration, and worry, replacing them with comfort, reassurance, and a renewed sense of hope. No matter what challenges she faces, she continues to show up for all of us, offering kindness, encouragement, and an unwavering commitment to our school community. Chrissy Jones isn’t just an exceptional staff member; she is the heart of AIS, and we are beyond grateful for all she does to make our school a better place every single day.

 

 

 

 

It is my absolute honor to celebrate someone who embodies the very heart of our school, Ms. Fonda Davis. Ms. Davis is more than just a counselor; she is a mentor, an advocate, a guiding light, and a source of unwavering support for students, families, and educators alike. Ms. Davis is a proud graduate of the Alcoa High School class of 1990. Ms. Davis has served as the school counselor at Alcoa Middle School for four years. During her time at AMS, Ms. Davis continues to provide a deep commitment to student success, both academically and personally, and has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, compassion, and leadership. Whether it's offering a listening ear, guiding students through challenges, or creating programs that foster growth and resilience, her impact is felt in every corner of our school community. Ms. Davis helps our students discover who they are and how to handle the world around them. She is able to guide, support, and empower AMS students during one of the most critical stages of their development. We are extremely thankful for Ms. Davis and are blessed to have her at AMS!

 

 

 

 

There are a good number of folks at Alcoa High School who really keep us all up and running. Our school bookkeeper, Leann White, would be right at the top of the list! Leann is now in her 10th year at AHS and she has made the move from school registrar, a position she worked for 8 years prior to being named the school bookkeeper, about as seamlessly as possible. No easy task in itself. Leann is attentive, detail-oriented, and has done a phenomenal job in a position that might have a half-dozen people “needing” something at a given moment. Leann does an amazing job of helping us manage our school finances, budget, and, most importantly importantly, keeps us all out of prison! The role that she fills as a school bookkeeper can’t be overstated. What she does each day has such a significant impact on our school operations and supports the rest of our teachers and staff in being successful in our classrooms, clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. We’re beyond thankful to have Mrs. White as a member of the AHS family, and she is beyond deserving to have been selected as the AHS 2024-2025 “Staff Member of the Year.”

 

 

 

 

We are proud to celebrate Michelle Knight, the Director of K-5 Education, as the Alcoa City Schools ESC Staff of the Year. With a career that spans decades, Michelle’s dedication to Alcoa’s students and community has been unwavering. From her early years as a student in the district to her roles as a teacher, principal, and supervisor, Michelle has continuously demonstrated a tireless commitment to education and service. Her hard work and passion for student success is evident in every aspect of her role. Michelle goes above and beyond every day, often being the last one to leave work, ensuring that every detail is in place for the students and educators she supports. She is a true asset to our district, always putting the needs of students first and serving with a servant’s heart. Alcoa is not just a place of work for Michelle—it’s a community she loves deeply. She is more than an educator; she’s a champion for every student, striving to make a lasting impact in their lives. Michelle Knight embodies the spirit of Alcoa, and we are grateful for her ongoing dedication and leadership. Congratulations, Michelle, on this well-deserved honor!

 

 

 

 

Ms. Cooper came to ESS this past summer after leaving her job with the district. She loves Alcoa City Schools so much that she is back working again. She has worked 58 days this school year. The staff and the kids love Ms. Cooper. She has been a great addition to our ESS staff. We appreciate all her hard work! Congratulations!