HCPSS2023 Work Hard Be Kind Award Recipients
May 8th, 2023
The HCPSS Work Hard Be Kind Award recognizes individuals who lead with kindness and go above and beyond to support the mission and vision of the system. One school-based staff member from each of the three Areas, along with one individual from Central Office was selected for a total of four awardees.
Staff members were selected for this award for their exemplary achievements or efforts meeting one or more of the following criteria:
- Demonstrate a real willingness to do whatever needs to be done on the job;
- Are team players contributing to the success of their school/office/division in ways that may not always be readily apparent;
- Are unwavering in their pursuit of excellence;
- Demonstrate kindness in their interactions and in their communication; and
- Are the dependable “go to” people who are seemingly always there to help.
Area 1 Recipient: Jonathan Hawkins, Alternative Education Program Coordinator, Hammond High School
“Jonathan’s kind heart and spirit creates dynamic relationships. His unique way of connecting with others is like none other. He loves to help others whether it is attending a sports contest, helping parents when they lose someone in their family, or taking a staff member to dinner because they look like they are struggling through something. As the Alternative Education Program Coordinator, Jon connects with students who have some heavy loads. He gets to know each of these students very well, is creative in his approach and encourages staff to meet these students where they are. As the Hammond parent liaison, he worked to connect parents as major contributors to the Hammond community and served as a bridge for helping these parents navigate HCPSS systems to feel comfortable supporting their own students. He creates a safe space when having tough conversations with parents and students as they discuss evaluating their friend groups and setting goals. He led our school’s restorative circles and has transformed these circles into builders of relationships and resolutions of conflict. He is a true champion for kids and has been devoted to our Golden Bear Country for many years.” – Principal Raymona Reid
Area 2 Recipient: Troy Hoffman, Instructional Technology Teacher, Gorman Crossing Elementary School
“Troy’s knowledge surpasses instructional pedagogy to include educational leadership and an understanding of county policies and school procedures. He has given up non-instructional and personal time to problem solve and collaborate with fellow co-workers. I often observe him assisting staff members with technology concerns during his lunch break or after school. He collaborates with Administration to help create the most effective related arts schedule for staff and students. This requires many revisions and hours beyond the school day. Troy is our school play director and producer annually. He volunteers countless hours behind the scenes to help create hugely successful productions. Troy stepped into an administrative role at the back of the building during an unplanned emergency evacuation when administration was assisting in another part of the building. He truly makes everyone feel valued. On a personal level, he remembers and recognizes special occasions for many staff members as well as their children. He sends birthday, anniversary, and sympathy cards with thoughtful messages.” -Principal Deborah Holmes (summarizing submissions from GCES staff)
Area 3 Recipient: Larry Aikens, Custodian Day Supervisor, Dunloggin Middle School
“Mr. Aikens works tirelessly to support the needs of the students, staff and members of the Dunloggin Middle School community. His service to the school goes beyond the scope of his job description. Mr. Aikens can be seen daily supporting the administrative team and staff with hall duty and assisting in the cafeteria during each lunch shift. He has taken money out of his own pocket to support students in need such as buying new shoes and paying for school lunch. He does these things unselfishly and without expecting recognition. Even though he is the only custodian on duty during the day, he rises above the challenges and still ensures our building is clean, outdoor dining table is set-up and the needs of the staff are met. Mr. Aikens has been a personal mentor to several of our students and parental figure to many, providing them with words of encouragement when they need it, as well as reinforcing the importance of making good decisions. His kind heart and compassion for others doesn’t go unnoticed.” – Principal Antoinette Roberson
Central Office Recipient: Carrie Slaysman, Executive Assistant, Office of the Deputy Superintendent
“Carrie has been the face of the Office of the Superintendent for six years and you will be hard pressed to find a more positive, gracious and smart individual. She has demonstrated amazing leadership through myriad transitions in life and work including pivoting to a virtual environment while keeping the work moving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carrie treats everyone with respect, compassion and expertise. I overheard a staff member ask her recently if she is ever in a bad mood because from their perspective, nothing rattles her and she’s always so positive. Carrie approaches her work with gusto, positivity and love. You feel better having been in her presence and she does not rest until a problem is solved or a person is helped. Carrie is retiring this June after 44 years of service including over 10 in our system. She is a true gem for HCPSS.” – Deputy Superintendent Dr. Karalee Turner-Little