May Board of Education Recognitions
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The Kannapolis Board of Education was proud to honor outstanding representatives from around the district at its May meeting.
Shady Brook Elementary School
Sarenity is a student who consistently shines through her kind heart, positive attitude, and dedication to always doing her best. She treats others with respect, is always willing to lend a helping hand, and brings warmth and encouragement to those around her. Sarenity has a loving spirit that makes others feel valued, supported, and cared for each day. She shows compassion to her classmates, celebrates the success of others, and offers kindness so naturally to everyone she meets. Her caring nature and uplifting presence make our school community stronger each day.
Sarenity has shown tremendous growth in her learning from the beginning of the school year until now, and her academic progress has been truly remarkable. She comes to school each day with a strong work ethic and a genuine desire to improve. Sarenity understands that growth comes through effort, and she consistently gives her best in all that she does. She listens carefully during instruction, stays focused on the task at hand, and uses feedback to strengthen her understanding. Even when concepts are challenging, she remains determined and continues working until she reaches success. Her commitment to learning, positive attitude, and willingness to keep trying have allowed her to make significant academic gains. Sarenity’s progress is a reflection of her perseverance, dedication, and belief in herself as a learner.
Most importantly, Sarenity reminds us that success is not determined by where you begin, but by the effort, character, and perseverance you show along the way. Through her ambition and steady commitment, she has proven that great things come to those who keep striving. We are incredibly proud of Sarenity and excited to see all that she will accomplish in the future.
Azuree is an exceptional student who represents the very best of our school community through her character, leadership, and dedication to learning. She is studious, hardworking, and consistently puts forth her very best effort in everything she does. No matter the task, Azuree approaches it with responsibility, focus, and determination to do her best. She takes pride in her work and always strives for excellence.
Azuree is also an avid learner who genuinely enjoys gaining new knowledge and growing academically. She asks thoughtful questions, stays engaged, and sets a positive example for others through her commitment to learning. Her strong work ethic and positive attitude inspire those around her to do their best as well. She understands that success comes from effort, perseverance, and a willingness to keep learning.
What makes Azuree even more special is the way she treats others. She is a friend to everyone and has a natural ability to make others feel included, valued, and supported. Her classmates speak highly of her because she is kind, respectful, dependable, and caring. She leads not only through words, but through her everyday actions and the example she sets for those around her.
Azuree is truly a shining star and a wonderful representation of what it means to be a Bulldog: strong, responsible, compassionate, and determined. Although she is only a fifth grader, she carries herself with a level of maturity, grace, and character far beyond her years. We are incredibly proud of Azuree, grateful for the light she brings to our school, and excited to see all the amazing things her future holds.
It is an honor to recognize Zach Martin for his exemplary contributions to Shady Brook and to our district. As a Behavior Intervention Support specialist, Zach possesses the ability to connect with students during their most challenging moments. He is well-versed in Restorative Practices, moving beyond simple discipline to help students understand their impact, learn from their choices, and successfully "reset" for the day ahead. His work isn’t just about managing behavior; it’s about building the resilience and social-emotional skills our students need to thrive long-term.
Beyond his direct work with students, Zach has become an invaluable pillar of support for our professional community. He is always willing to offer a helping hand to his colleagues, whether he is coaching a teacher through a difficult classroom dynamic or leading formal professional development sessions for our entire staff. Zach doesn't just wait for a crisis to occur; he is remarkably proactive, identifying emerging needs across the schools he serves and stepping in with solutions before they escalate. His dedication to both our students and our staff makes him a truly valuable member of our team.
We are proud to recognize Teresa Kimbrough for her exceptional dedication and skill as a first-grade teacher. Although Ms. Kimbrough is only in her second year, she walks into her classroom with the calm presence and pedagogical precision of a seasoned veteran. She has a natural, common-sense approach to education that allows her to cut through the noise and focus on what truly helps children learn. By creating a safe, structured, and deeply welcoming environment, she ensures her students feel the security they need to take risks and thrive academically.
What truly sets Teresa apart is her relentless pursuit of growth. She is incredibly coachable, frequently seeking out feedback from our curriculum coach and actively collaborating with her Professional Learning Community (PLC). She doesn't just attend these meetings; she enriches them by contributing impactful ideas and strategies that benefit the entire grade level. Teresa is a shining example of how a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for student culture can transform a classroom, and we are fortunate to have her in our district.
We are thrilled to recognize Rich Martin, owner of our local Culver’s, for his unwavering commitment to the students and staff of Kannapolis City Schools. Rich is a community partner in the truest sense of the word. This year alone, he has hosted three Spirit Nights for Shady Brook Elementary, providing the vital funding necessary to finance our Positive Behavior Awards. Because of his generosity, we have been able to celebrate our students’ successes and reinforce a positive school culture in ways that wouldn't have been possible without his support.
What makes Rich truly exceptional is his "yes" mentality. Whether he is providing a generous discount on our favorite staff treat—concrete mixers—or helping us brainstorm new ways to incentivize student achievement, his response is always the same: if we can dream it up, he is willing to help make it happen. While we are highlighting his impact at Shady Brook tonight, it is important to note that Rich extends this same spirit of partnership to every school across the district. He is a proactive leader who genuinely cares about the future of our children, and we are incredibly grateful for his continued investment in KCS.
The Board was also pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Kelli Earnhardt, teacher, Jackson Park Elementary School.
Hilbish Ford is proud to recognize Kelli Earnhardt as our Teacher of the Month for May 2026.
The family of a student had this to say about Ms. Earnhardt: “I would like to nominate Mrs. Earnhardt for Teacher of the Month in recognition of the incredible impact she has had on my son and our family. My son is 5 years old and has autism and ADHD, which can make behavior and learning particularly challenging. At the beginning of the year, he was behind his peers academically and struggled each day, often becoming upset and resistant to going to school.
Since joining Ms. Earnhardt’s class, the transformation has been remarkable. Not only has she helped him catch up academically, but she has also completely changed his outlook on school. He now enjoys going each day, which is something we once thought would be a constant struggle.
Ms. Earnhardt’s patience, kindness, and dedication truly set her apart. It is clear in every interaction that she is passionate about teaching and genuinely cares for each child in her classroom. She creates a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.
As a parent, there is no greater comfort than knowing your child is in caring and capable hands. Ms. Earnhardt consistently goes above and beyond, exceeding all expectations and making a lasting difference in her students’ lives. There are not enough words to fully express how deserving she is of this recognition.”
Kelli, the Kannapolis City Schools Board of Education is proud to recognize your hard work, caring spirit and dedication to your students and name you the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month for May.
Officer Russell Dailey
We are proud to recognize Officer Russell Dailey, one of our School Resource Officers. Officer Dailey joined us in January, and has already made a tremendous impact across Kannapolis City Schools.
From the very beginning, Officer Dailey demonstrated his commitment to our students and staff by visiting every school in the district, building relationships, and engaging in meaningful conversations around safety and support. His presence in our elementary schools was immediately felt—he was visible, approachable, and instrumental in the school day and specifically was a huge help in ensuring safe transportation during inclement weather days by monitoring high concern areas around our schools.
More recently, Officer Dailey stepped in at A.L. Brown High School, and his impact continued seamlessly. Arriving early each morning, he conducts thorough perimeter checks and supports safe student arrival, particularly in the senior and junior parking lots. His attentiveness and proactive approach recently prevented a situation that could have escalated into a much larger issue—end before the school day even began.
Officer Dailey exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity, vigilance, and care. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication and for the vital role all of our School Resource Officers play in keeping our schools safe, supported, and student-centered.
Outstanding Math Teacher Award
Each year, Kannapolis City Schools is delighted to partner with the North Carolina Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to recognize an outstanding math teacher. This year, we are proud to honor Melissa Little, a fourth-grade teacher at Shady Brook Elementary. Melissa will also be recognized at the state math conference in Winston-Salem, where she will represent KCS.
As Principal, Bernard Waugh shares, “Ms. Little goes above and beyond to make math instruction engaging and relevant for her students.” Both her math planning and instruction are incredibly intentional. She designs experiences that allow students to grow in their understanding of math concepts with structured and collaborative support. She establishes a classroom community where students take ownership of their learning. Ms. Little translates her belief that every student is a mathematician into instructional actions that respond to students’ needs and develop understanding. Her knowledge of what her students understand and her analysis of their misconceptions is what allows her to continuously see academic growth in her students. While Ms. Little is impacting learning outcomes with her own students, she is also partnering with colleagues and engaging in ongoing professional learning to continually improve her instruction.
Her dedication to students, collaboration with peers, and commitment to excellence make her a truly deserving recipient of this honor. Congratulations, Melissa, on your recognition as our 2026 KCS Outstanding Elementary Mathematics Teacher!
Retirees
Norma Alava, Spanish Teacher, A.L. Brown High School
It is our honor to recognize Norma Alava for her many years of dedicated service to A.L. Brown High School and Kannapolis City Schools. Ms. Alava has been a consistent and steady presence in our school community, serving as a Spanish teacher with grace, humility, and quiet strength.
Over the years, she has remained deeply committed to her students and her craft, approaching her work with professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility. In her classroom, Ms. Alava creates an environment where students are actively engaged and held accountable for their learning. She thoughtfully incorporates effective instructional strategies, including frequent checks for understanding, and ensures that all students are participating, speaking, and interacting with the content. Her ability to keep students focused, involved, and on track reflects her dedication to their success.
Beyond daily instruction, Ms. Alava enriches her students’ experiences by planning meaningful field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom. She also maintains strong communication with families, keeping parents informed and involved in their child’s progress. Ms. Alava is someone who consistently does what is right for students, fulfilling her responsibilities with fidelity and care. Her dependable nature, quiet kindness, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on A.L. Brown High School.
As she retires, we thank Ms. Alava for her years of service and the difference she has made in the lives of her students. We wish her all the best in this next chapter.
Jennifer Baucom, Director, McKnight Child Development Center
It is truly an honor to celebrate a remarkable career and an even more remarkable person—Dr. Jennifer Baucom. Jennifer began her journey in education in 1998 with Rowan-Salisbury Schools, teaching both first and third grade at Bostian and Granite Quarry Elementary. Her leadership was evident early on, becoming an assistant principal at Granite in 2003, and then continuing to grow her impact during six years as an assistant principal at Shady Brook. In 2010, Jennifer stepped into the role of Director of McKnight, where she has led with vision, heart, and unwavering dedication.
Over the course of her 22 years with Kannapolis City Schools, she has shaped not only programs, but lives. Her leadership has extended beyond our district as well, serving as Secretary for the North Carolina Head Start Association since 2020. Her work has brought incredible resources and opportunities to our community, including securing over $20 million in grant funding—most notably a $5.1 million Head Start Natural Disaster Grant that made possible the construction and grand opening of a new facility in 2023.
A proud graduate of A.L. Brown High School, Jennifer has continued her own learning journey, culminating in earning her doctorate in 2023—a testament to her lifelong commitment to growth and excellence. But beyond the titles, the accolades, and the achievements, what stands out most is her heart. Her love for students—their learning, their growth, their futures—has been the driving force behind everything she has done. That kind of commitment is rare, and it will be incredibly hard to match.
And while her professional accomplishments are many, she will tell you her greatest pride is her family. Her two sons, Nathan—who will be attending UNC Chapel Hill School of Law—and Braden, a junior at Chapel Hill, are her greatest joy and her most treasured accomplishment. We are so grateful for your years of service, your leadership, and most importantly, your unwavering commitment to the youngest learners of Kannapolis. Your love for students and their growth will be deeply missed, but your impact will be felt for generations to come. Congratulations, Jennifer, and thank you for everything.
Katherine Bogle, Instructional Coach, A.L. Brown High School
It is our privilege to recognize Katie Bogle for her outstanding service and lasting contributions to A.L. Brown High School and Kannapolis City Schools. Ms. Bogle has been a dedicated member of the A.L. Brown community for many years, and throughout that time, she has worn many hats, always stepping in wherever she is needed most. Her commitment to students and staff is evident in everything she does. She has been a strong advocate for our multilingual learners, worked tirelessly to secure grants that have brought valuable resources to our school, and helped expand opportunities for students through innovative tools such as virtual reality programs and updated media center materials.
In addition to her work with students, Ms. Bogle has made a significant impact on staff development. She consistently provides high-quality professional learning opportunities and is always willing to support teachers one-on-one, making time to ensure they feel confident and successful in their practice. This year, she stepped into the role of instructional coach during its inaugural year at the high school level, a role with great responsibility and need and she has embraced it with excellence, supporting a large staff and making a meaningful difference in classrooms across the building.
Ms. Bogle’s influence extends beyond our district, as she has presented at the state level, including with NC TIES, sharing her knowledge and expertise with educators across North Carolina. She is not only highly knowledgeable, but also forward-thinking, with a strong passion for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and its role in education.
Above all, Ms. Bogle is a servant leader, someone who leads by supporting others, always willing to do whatever is needed to help students and staff succeed. Her impact has been far-reaching, and her dedication has made a lasting difference at A.L. Brown High School. We are grateful for Ms. Bogle’s years of service and the legacy she leaves behind. We wish her all the best in her retirement.
Vivian Cortes Gonzalez, Music Teacher, Fred L. Wilson Elementary
Throughout her tenure at both Shady Brook and Fred L. Wilson, Ms. Cortes has been much more than a music teacher; she has been a cultural ambassador for our students. Her passion for education has inspired countless children to explore, create, and find their own voices through the power of music.
Vivian’s impact on our district has been both audible and visible. She has thoughtfully planned and led truly amazing musical performances and hosted vibrant community events that brought our families together. Most notably, she was the driving force behind celebrations like the Global Block Party. Through these initiatives, her students learned far more than how to play an instrument—they gained a profound appreciation for global cultures and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Ms. Cortes, your dedication, your immense talent, and your heart have left an indelible mark on our school community. The joy you’ve brought to our halls and the curiosity you’ve sparked in your students will be felt for years to come.
We are incredibly grateful for everything you have given to our district. We wish you the very best as you begin this new movement in your life—you will be greatly missed!
Warren Hipp, Instructional Assistant, Jackson Park Elementary
It is with deep appreciation and admiration that we celebrate the retirement of Warren Hipp, a truly remarkable member of the Jackson Park Elementary and Kannapolis City School family. Throughout his career across Kannapolis City Schools, he has served in a variety of roles and schools, but one constant has remained—his unwavering commitment to supporting students and teachers at the highest level.
His impact in the areas of math and science has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a deep understanding of higher-level standards, he consistently pushed students to think critically, problem-solve, and reach beyond what they believed possible. Countless students have grown under his guidance, gaining both confidence and capability that will serve them long after leaving our classrooms. Just as importantly, he has been an invaluable partner to teachers, offering insight, encouragement, and expertise that has elevated instruction across our school and beyond.
Yet what truly sets him apart is his tireless spirit. He simply does not sit still. Whether he was supporting a classroom, collaborating with a colleague, or rolling up his sleeves to take on a project, he was always finding ways to make our schools better. From painting walls to tackling countless handyman projects across the district, his fingerprints are quite literally all over Kannapolis City Schools. His work has strengthened not only our buildings, but the very foundation of our school community.
At Jackson Park Elementary School, we are profoundly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind. Our students are stronger, our teachers are more supported, and our school is better because of him. His influence extends far beyond a single role or building—it is woven throughout the entire district.
As he begins this well-earned next chapter, we celebrate a career defined by service, excellence, and heart. His presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his work will continue to benefit students and educators for years to come.
Ute Lentz, CTE Technology/Engineering Teacher, A.L. Brown High School
It is our honor to recognize Dr. Ute Lentz for her many years of dedicated service to Kannapolis City Schools. Throughout her career as a Career and Technical Education teacher, Dr. Lentz has made a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues across our district.
Dr. Lentz brings an extensive background in education, holding a doctorate and demonstrating a lifelong commitment to learning and growth. She has been a leader within CTE, serving as a department chair and as a devoted Skills USA advisor, where she has inspired students to pursue excellence and real-world skills. Her innovative work exposing students to emerging fields such as drones and robotics has helped prepare them for success in an ever-changing world. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Lentz has presented at the national level, sharing her expertise and passion for education with a broader audience. She has also enriched her community by teaching German at a language school in Charlotte, extending her love of learning even further.
Dr. Lentz is known not only for her professionalism and leadership, but also for her heart. She consistently goes above and beyond—creating hands-on learning experiences, building meaningful relationships with her students, and supporting her school community in countless ways. Whether crafting curtains for the office or stepping in wherever help is needed, she embodies a spirit of service and care that will be deeply missed.
As she retires this June, we celebrate Dr. Lentz’s remarkable career and the legacy she leaves behind. Her passion, creativity, and dedication have made a lasting difference in Kannapolis City Schools. We thank her for her service and wish her all the best in this next chapter.
Lou Mueller, Social Studies Teacher, Kannapolis Middle School 7/8
Every school district has those rare individuals who serve as the 'backbone' of the building—the steady, dependable people who make everything run more smoothly just by being there. For us, that person has been Lou.
Lou is the definition of a 'team player.' He is someone who is always willing to jump in, lend a hand, and do exactly what needs to be done—and he does it all with a high level of professionalism and without ever seeking the spotlight. He hasn’t just filled a role; he has improved the daily life of our school through his reliability and his character.
Beyond his work ethic, Lou brought a unique personality to our halls. Whether you were a colleague or a student, you likely knew about Lou’s legendary guitar collection. It’s become a signature part of who he is, and it’s those personal connections and passions that make a school feel like a community.
Lou, as you transition into this next chapter, we want to thank you for your years of dedicated service. We hope your retirement is full of well-deserved rest, much joy, and plenty of time to enjoy those guitars.
Elizabeth Ritchie, Speech Language Pathologist, Jackson Park Elementary
It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we celebrate the retirement of Elizabeth Ritchie, whose extraordinary 32-year career with Kannapolis City Schools has left an enduring mark on generations of students, educators, and schools.
Throughout her time in the district, Elizabeth has supported students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, serving at both the elementary and high school levels with unmatched dedication and expertise. Her impact on students is truly immeasurable—she has helped an almost infinite number of children find their voices, build confidence, and access learning in ways that have changed the trajectory of their lives. Her work has always been rooted in a deep belief in every student’s potential, and she has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure they succeed.
Yet her legacy extends far beyond the students she has served. Elizabeth has been a cornerstone for Exceptional Children (EC) teachers across the district, coaching, mentoring, and guiding countless educators over the years. Her knowledge, patience, and unwavering support have strengthened the practice of so many, multiplying her impact across classrooms and schools throughout Kannapolis City Schools. She has not only been an exceptional teacher, but also a trusted teammate, a thoughtful mentor, and a true friend to colleagues across the district.
Her leadership—both formal and informal—has shaped the culture and capacity of our schools in profound ways. The ripple effect of her influence can be seen in the growth of educators, the success of students, and the strength of our programs. There is no doubt that Kannapolis City Schools is what it is today in large part because of Elizabeth Ritchie, and her absence will be deeply felt.
As she begins this well-deserved next chapter, we celebrate a career defined by compassion, excellence, and lasting impact. While it is true that our district will never be quite the same, her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she has touched.
Sheree Russell, CTE Teacher and Coach, McKnight Child Development Center
With 10 years of dedicated experience in preschool education, Sheree Russell serves as a pillar of warmth and wisdom in our classrooms. As a great-grandmother, she brings a unique, generational perspective to her work, acting as a nurturing force and a strong role model for her family and students alike.
A true prayer warrior, Sheree is the heartbeat of hope at our school, grounding her service in a faith-centered approach that comforts everyone she meets. She is known for her rare ability to balance high expectations with a gentle, caring spirit, ensuring every child feels both challenged to grow and deeply loved. Whether she is offering a kind word or a guiding hand, Sheree’s presence is a constant reminder of the power of genuine care and devotion.
Georgann Sapp, Art Teacher, Jackson Park Elementary
It is a day that many thought would never actually come to pass, the retirement of Georgann Sapp. Georgann is an extraordinary art educator whose 35-year career with Kannapolis City Schools has left an indelible mark on generations of students and staff. Spending nearly her entire career at Jackson Park Elementary School, she has been far more than an art teacher—she has been a wonderful colleague, a leader, and a guiding force through decades of growth and change within our school community.
Throughout her time at Jackson Park, she has witnessed the evolution of our school and community, and at every step, she has helped lead the way forward. Her leadership is truly immeasurable. She embodies the very ethos of our school—not only because of her longevity, but because of the profound influence she has had on both students and educators over the years. Her classroom has been a place where creativity flourishes, confidence is built, and students are encouraged to see the world—and themselves—through a broader, more inspired lens.
Beyond her classroom, her impact reaches every corner of our school. She has been instrumental in shaping the direction of our magnet program and continues to lead a wide range of school wide initiatives with vision and purpose. Colleagues look to her not just for guidance, but for wisdom, perspective, and a deep understanding of what makes Jackson Park special. She is, in every sense, a steward of our school—someone who carries our traditions, champions our growth, and ensures that we remain grounded in what matters most.
Her legacy is woven into the fabric of Jackson Park Elementary School. The culture she has helped build, the educators she has influenced, and the students she has inspired will continue to shape our school for years to come. While her daily presence will be deeply missed, the impact of her work will endure in the hearts, minds, and creativity of all those she has touched.
As she begins this well-earned next chapter, we celebrate a career defined by leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment. Jackson Park—and all of Kannapolis City Schools—is stronger because of her, and it will never be quite the same without her.
Congratulations to all these retirees for their extraordinary contributions to Kannapolis City Schools!