Three people were recognized for their awards and accomplishments at the Burke County Public Schools (BCPS) Board of Education meeting on Monday.
Digital Teaching and Learning Director and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Kristin Edwards was recognized by Superintendent Mike Swan for receiving the Gardner-Webb University 2026 Graduate Faculty Award for Adjunct Faculty.
The award recognized a graduate program adjunct “who has made outstanding contributions to the teaching mission of Gardner-Webb University,” Swan said. “We are proud of Dr. Edwards for her work in higher ed as well as being in a valuable role in Burke County Public Schools.”
Gardner-Webb said students consistently praised Edwards for her exceptional organization, clear communication, timely feedback, and unwavering commitment to their success.
“Through her teaching, Edwards has earned a reputation for creating a supportive and well-structured learning environment that helps graduate students navigate complex coursework while balancing professional and personal responsibilities,” Gardner-Webb staff said in an article.
Swan recognized Hallyburton Academy Principal Carla May for her election as president of the North Carolina Association of Alternative Educators (NCAAE).
“This is a professional educational organization focused on advancing the mission of alternative education across the state and ultimately increasing student achievement,” Swan said.
“Congratulations to Ms. May on holding this office, and we know with her vision, passion, and leadership, she’ll represent Burke County Public Schools well.”
Freedom High School’s Jessica Marshall was recognized by the Exceptional Children (EC) Director Jessie Gravel as EC Educator of Excellence for her work leading Freedom’s EC department and Occupational Course of Study (OCS) program.
Gravel said Marshall has the opportunity to attend the 75th North Carolina Conference on Exceptional Children in Greensboro this year. Educators of excellence from each of the state’s 117 public school districts will be recognized at the conference.
“Despite staff turnover, (Marshall) has remained a steady, consistent support for both students and staff, helping create a positive, structured environment for everyone involved,” Gravel said. “She works incredibly hard to meet a wide variety of behavioral needs and always puts students first.”
Gravel said Marshall has expanded off-campus job opportunities for EC students to help them gain work experience and build independence and job skills.
“Her dedication, creativity, and commitment to students are evident in everything she does and the impact she has made on the program has been tremendous,” Gravel said.
GYMNASIUM NAMED
The board voted unanimously to name the George Hildebrand Elementary School gymnasium after longtime educator Milton Rhoney.
There was no discussion on the topic.
Swan said at the Aug. 3 meeting that the request was specifically for a plaque outside the gym bearing Rhoney’s name.
