Updated: 12:23 PM EST Mar 13, 2021 WXII12.com Web Staff A Wilkes County middle school teacher assistant was named a North Carolina School Hero as part of the North Carolina Lottery program.Jeff Atwell said he likes to treat his students like his youngest son, who has autism.The Education Lottery said his commitment to his job and his compassion for his students led to his selection as a School Hero. “I am the mother of a severely disabled child,” said parent Kasey Byrd-Smithey. “Knowing that my son is taken care of the way that I would take care of him is an amazing feeling. Jeff understands what the kids need without the kids having to tell him and that just relieves all of my stress when it comes to sending my son to school.”Rodney Graham, the principal of Central Wilkes Middle, said Atwell s endless patience and compassion gives parents peace of mind. “Nothing you ever do for children is wasted,” Graham said. “When the children know that t
Clendenin, a retired 82nd Airborne Ranger, is a JROTC instructor at West Brunswick High School in Shallotte.
He retired as a first sergeant after 23 years in the U.S. Army, helps his students find scholarship opportunities, mentors them, provides guidance on enlisting, and stays current on certifications such as “high ropes course instructor” just to keep things interesting for the students.
Col. Joseph Calisto, a colleague at the school, said, “Our program would pale in comparison without him. He has made the difference between success and mediocrity. He truly is a role model for all of us.”
Clendenin s daughter, Jennifer Hatley, said he defines the word “hero” because “he’s always willing to give you the shirt off his back and he continually pushes and strives for excellence in every avenue of his life.”
Edneyville Elementary teacher named NC School Hero blueridgenow.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from blueridgenow.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.