FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nash County Public Schools Celebrates Outstanding Educators at Annual Awards Ceremony
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C.—Nash County Public Schools (NCPS) honored its educators' achievements during the 2024-2025 Educator of the Year Awards, held at the Benvenue Country Club in Rocky Mount.
"We are incredibly proud to honor these educators who not only demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication but also inspire and shape the futures of our students," said a district spokesperson. "These awardees exemplify the transformative power of education and the positive impact of committed teaching professionals."
The event saw Jasmine Wilson, a science teacher at Early College, receiving the prestigious Teacher of the Year award. Wilson, renowned for her engaging teaching methods and commitment to student success, represents the epitome of educational excellence within Nash County Public Schools.
The First Year Teacher of the Year award was presented to McKenzie Hinnant, recognizing her exceptional commitment and outstanding contributions to student success in her first year of teaching.
Leadership excellence was also celebrated, with Dr. Leon Dupree, the principal of Rocky Mount Middle, named Principal of the Year. Dr. Dupree's impactful leadership and dedication were highlighted through a rigorous evaluation process involving peer nominations and interviews.
Melissa Denton, assistant principal at Nashville Elementary, was awarded Assistant Principal of the Year for her effective leadership and dedication to the Nash County school community.
The ceremony also recognized Twana Daniels, a teacher assistant at Williford Elementary. She received the inaugural Teacher Assistant of the Year Award for her exemplary daily performance and role as a motivational leader among her colleagues.
The evening was further highlighted by a generous donation from Davenport Autopark, which awarded a car to the Teacher of the Year, demonstrating significant community support for education.
NCPS would like to extend a special thanks to its event sponsors, including Pierce Group Benefits and Davenport Autopark at the Platinum level; Southern Bank and Herff Jones Graduate Services East at the Gold level; Communities in Schools and Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance at the Silver level; and Bailey's Fine Jewelry and Drummond's Florist at the Bronze level.
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Media Contact:
Heather Louise Finch, Executive Director of Communication, Planning, and Engagement
hlfinch@ncpschools.net