Catawba County Schools Honors 'Of the Year' Award Winners

On Wednesday May 31st, Catawba County Schools celebrated its employees in their “Sweet Home Catawba County Schools” event at CVCC's Tarlton Complex. The country-themed evening brought out everyone's best western wear from across the district, where they were entertained with music by retired CCS employee, Joe Biggerstaff, enjoyed a BBQ dinner, and provided a few extra surprises!

Dr. Matthew Stover, Superintendent, announced Wendy Wilson, H.M. Arndt Middle School, as the Catawba County Schools 2023 Teacher of the Year. She was selected in a rigorous process from a field of 28 candidates representing each school in the district. Mrs. Wilson received a $500 award from the Education Foundation for Catawba County Schools, a crystal apple provided by Horace Mann, and the 1-year use of a 2023 Camry SE courtesy of Mike Johnson’s Hickory Toyota. Mrs. Wilson will now represent Catawba County Schools at the regional level. 

Heather Houser, Mountain View Elementary, was named the Catawba County Schools 2023 Principal of the Year. She received a $500 award from the Education Foundation for Catawba County Schools. She will also represent Catawba County Schools at the regional level. 

Other top winners of the evening include: 

• Elementary Teacher of the Year: Amber Cadle, Blackburn Elementary School
• Secondary Teacher of the Year: Mark Simmons, Mill Creek Middle School
• Beginning Teacher of the Year: Savannah Sartin, St. Stephens High School
•  Counselor of the Year: Crystal Moore, River Bend Middle School
•  Media Coordinator of the Year: Jennifer Pendley, Maiden High School
• Assistant Principal of the Year: Grace Ann Sevier, Startown Elementary School
• Bus Driver of the Year: Amy Duncan, Bandys Feeder

All of the above award winners received a $500 award provided by the Education Foundation for Catawba County Schools.
 
The following award recipients were celebrated at an earlier date but were also recognized at the evening’s event: 

• Online Catawba Teacher of the Year: Kristen Houston
• CCATA Teacher Assistant of the Year: Kelli Shupe, Lyle Creek Elementary School
• Educational Office Professional of the Year: Kristie Gilbert, Administrative Assistant, Maintenance Dept. 
• Educational Office Professional Administrator of the Year: Dr. Matt Stover, Superintendent

All of these winners also received a $500 award provided by the Education Foundation for Catawba County Schools.