🎉 Congratulations to Joseph Peart! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce that Joseph Peart, our dedicated paraprofessional, has been named the King Springs Elementary School Classified Employee of the Year! This prestigious award recognizes Joseph's exceptional commitment and contributions to our school community.

What is a Cobb County School District Classified Employee? Classified employees in the Cobb County School District are essential support staff who play a critical role in the daily operations of our schools. These employees include paraprofessionals, custodians, clerical staff, food service workers, and other non-teaching personnel. They are often described as the "heartbeat" of the school, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

KSE CEOTY winner, Joseph Peart, was announced on March 25, 2025 during the KSE staff meeting.

Joseph Peart exemplifies the dedication and passion that make our school a nurturing and successful place for students to learn and grow. His hard work and positive attitude have made a significant impact on our students and staff alike.

The Role of a Paraprofessional: Paraprofessionals, also known as paraeducators, are essential members of the educational team. They work closely with teachers to support students' learning and development:

• Assisting with Classroom Management: Helping maintain a positive and orderly classroom environment.
• Supporting Instruction: Working with small groups or individual students to reinforce lessons and concepts taught by the teacher.
• Preparing Materials: Assisting in the preparation of instructional materials and classroom setup.
• Supervising Students: Monitoring students during lunch, recess, and other activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Providing Individualized Support: Offering additional help to students who need extra assistance with their learning.
• Collaborating with Teachers: Working alongside teachers to plan and implement effective instructional strategies.

Nominated by 1st Grade Teacher Katherine Sharp:  "Joseph works in so many classrooms throughout the school day. No matter where he is or what is asked of him, he does it with a smile on his face and with a good attitude. He has a calming demeanor that positively impacts the students and staff members he works with. He encourages the students he works with to do the best of their abilities and is able to meet them where they are behaviorally, academically, or emotionally every day. After working with a variety of students and in several classrooms throughout the day, he continues to work in the After School Program (ASP) with a smile on his face, with energy and excitement, so that students he works with are excited to stay for ASP. He is always willing to do an 'example craft,' help decorate classrooms/hallways/doors, make copies, work with students on academic tasks, assist with behavior and data collection."

Karen Williams, Mr. Peart's mother, with her son, KSE CEOTY Joseph Peart

This exciting announcement was made at the King Springs Elementary School staff meeting on March 25, 2025. Joseph's mother, Karen Williamson, who works at Birney Elementary School as a kindergarten paraprofessional and in the King Springs ASP, joined the meeting to announce that Joseph was the winner.  The entire King Springs Elementary School staff participated in the voting process, making this recognition even more special.  

KSE CEOTY Joseph Peart, KSE Principal Ashley Mize, and KSE TOTY Haleigh Coleman

Please join us in congratulating Joseph on this well-deserved honor!