FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fort Wayne Community Schools celebrated its first-ever Employee of the Year on Wednesday when Superintendent Dr. Mark Daniel surprised Study Elementary Secretary/Treasurer Sharon McGhee with the honor.
For many years, FWCS has named Teachers of the Year. Employee of the Year was added to recognize the dedication and contributions made by non-teaching staff throughout the district.
“Our teachers do a great job in the classroom every day, but they couldn’t do the job they do without the support staff in their buildings and throughout the district,” Dr. Daniel said. “Secretaries, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, nurses and so many others play a critical role in the success of our students. This award recognizes that work.”
McGhee, the first honoree, has spent 17 years with FWCS, including the last 13 years as the secretary/treasurer at Study.
“Mrs. McGhee lives her life with a strong moral compass,” Study Principal Elizabeth Kleber said. “She is compassionate, dedicated and continually finding ways to build the learning environment to benefit the children at Study. Mrs. McGhee makes sure that each interaction that she has welcomes, encourages and motivates. Everyone who meets her is enriched by Sharon McGhee.”
Melissa Richards, Director of Elementary Education, called McGhee “the epitome of what Fort Wayne Community Schools wants in an employee.”
Her attention to detail and ability to remain calm in a crisis are some of her greatest attributes, Richards said.
“If it needs to be done, Sharon will do it; no questions asked,” Richards said. “Sharon participates in family nights and special events put on by the school and makes all attempts to interface with the community to shine a light on Study Elementary and FWCS.”
Employee of the Year nominations were made by principals and department heads and were reviewed by a committee. Also nominated were:
