November Board of Education Recognitions

Nov 19 2025

The Kannapolis Board of Education was proud to honor outstanding representatives from around the district at its November meeting.

Kannapolis Middle School 6th

Evan Hartley is an absolute joy to have at KMS 6! He is consistently respectful, hardworking, and goes above and beyond to support both his classmates and teachers. Evan is a proud member of our Battle of the Books club and serves as a library helper each morning, shelving books and helping to keep our media center running smoothly.

Evan works well with all of his peers, bringing a thoughtful and unique perspective to class discussions. He is always engaged, eager to participate, and approaches each day with positivity and curiosity. KMS 6 is proud to recognize Evan for the leadership, kindness, and enthusiasm he brings to our Eagle community each and every day.

Jasmine Herrera Quiroz has made tremendous progress in her English-speaking skills since her time at KMS 6. She is a sweet, hardworking student who gives her very best each and every day. Jasmine comes to school with a determination not only to learn new content but also to translate and understand everything in both English and her native language, Spanish.

Her dedication and perseverance have inspired other Spanish-speaking students to work harder and continue growing in their English proficiency. Jasmine embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner—eager, resilient, and kind. She even helps her teachers practice their Spanish as they support her in learning English! Jasmine is a wonderful reminder of why we teach, and we are so proud to have her as part of our KMS 6 Eagle family.

It’s easy to forget that Ms. Carter is a long-term substitute because she truly teaches like a seasoned educator. We are so lucky to have her as part of our KMS 6 family! Ms. Carter is an incredible asset to Team HPU, working tirelessly to ensure her students receive high-quality instruction every day. She is a true learner—soaking up everything about middle school teaching and putting it into practice with enthusiasm and care.

Beyond her classroom, Ms. Carter has stepped into leadership roles by teaching and inspiring not only her fellow long-term substitutes but also several of our beginning teachers. Her passion for growing student’s shines through in the hands-on, rigorous, and engaging lessons she designs. When you walk into her classroom, you immediately feel a sense of warmth, engagement, and trust between her and her students. KMS 6 is deeply grateful for the energy, dedication, and heart that Ms. Carter brings to our Eagles community.

Greg Vesey is, without question, one of the best cafeteria managers around! He has created a fun, welcoming environment where every student feels cared for and valued. Greg takes the time to get to know individual students, greeting them with humor and kindness each day. His positivity and quick wit bring smiles to everyone who walks through the cafeteria doors.

Beyond his daily responsibilities, Greg is always willing to lend a helping hand to both students and staff. Whether it’s stepping in to assist with a need or simply spreading joy through his interactions, Greg embodies what it means to serve with heart. KMS 6 is incredibly grateful for his dedication, warmth, and the energy he brings to our Eagle community. Simply put—Greg is the man!

Sean Hunter is a true team player and a go-to resource for his colleagues at KMS 6. He has gone above and beyond to support staff by creating multiple Loom videos that help teachers learn and navigate Infinite Campus more efficiently. His initiative and generosity with his time have made a tremendous impact on our team.

Sean also serves as a vital bridge between both KMS buildings, working hard to advocate not only for what is best for students but also for the needs of his colleagues. He is constantly seeking ways to support teachers, strengthen collaboration, and enhance instruction across our school. In the classroom, Sean engages students through assignments and projects that connect to their interests and experiences, making learning both meaningful and fun.

KMS 6 is proud to recognize Sean for his leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff.

Selina Wheeler and our wonderful partners at First Wesleyan Church have become affectionately known as our “cookie and cupcake family.” Every other Friday, Selina brings joy and positivity to our hallways through the Treat Cart—filled with homemade cookies, cupcakes, and encouragement for our teachers and staff.

Her visits have become a cherished tradition at KMS 6, reminding us that our work is seen, valued, and appreciated by our community. Beyond the bi-weekly treats, Selina is actively working with her church to support our students and staff in a variety of meaningful ways, extending her impact even further. We are incredibly grateful for Selina Wheeler and First Wesleyan Church for their continued partnership, generosity, and commitment to our Eagle family.

Kannapolis Middle School 7th & 8th

Ian has shown remarkable growth and maturity as he’s transitioned from 7th to 8th grade. Throughout this school year, he has continued to demonstrate exceptional effort, character, and leadership in and out of the classroom. His teachers consistently praise his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. Ian approaches challenges with determination and sets a strong example for his peers through his respectfulness and accountability.

What stands out most about Ian is his consistency—he gives his best every day, takes pride in his work, and strives to improve in all areas. His academic progress and personal growth reflect his commitment to excellence and his dedication to being a well-rounded student. We are incredibly proud of the young man Ian is becoming and are excited to see the continued success he will achieve as a leader within our school community.

Holden exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding student both inside and outside the classroom. He consistently demonstrates leadership, compassion, and integrity in all that he does. Recently, Holden witnessed another student being bullied and responded not with words, but with action—offering kindness, encouragement, and a meaningful solution. He connected the student with a local martial arts studio and even offered to teach her self-defense skills himself, showing empathy well beyond his years.

Holden’s character shines through in every setting. His positivity, willingness to help others, and commitment to doing what’s right make him a role model for his peers and a source of pride for our school community. He is truly a shining light in every room he enters, and we are honored to recognize him for the example he sets each day as a leader and as an Eagle.

Ms. Brittany Allison exemplifies what it means to teach with both purpose and heart. As a Bible History teacher, she goes beyond the curriculum to make learning meaningful and applicable to real life. Her lessons connect historical and spiritual concepts to current events and community needs, allowing students to see the relevance of what they are learning. When teaching about Noah and the flood, for instance, she led a thoughtful discussion about natural disasters and their impact on local communities—then turned that lesson into action by organizing a canned food drive with her 6th grade students to support disaster relief efforts.

Ms. Allison’s care for students extends well beyond academics. She recently initiated a new laundry service project designed to assist students who may need help with access to clean clothing each week—a reflection of her compassion and her commitment to meeting students’ basic needs. She is a true team player who regularly asks questions and seeks insight from colleagues to better support her students.

In addition to her classroom work, Ms. Allison gives countless hours to the school community as a cheer coach, demonstrating dedication, positivity, and school spirit in all that she does. We deeply appreciate her servant leadership, her creativity, and the many ways she uplifts students and staff alike at Kannapolis Middle School.

Since joining Kannapolis Middle School this year, Ms. Alexis Nolen has quickly become an essential part of our school community. She has adapted to her role with professionalism, warmth, and an impressive ability to manage the fast pace of the front office with grace. Whether she’s greeting families, assisting staff, or supporting students, Alexis brings positivity and efficiency to everything she does.

Her calm demeanor, attention to detail, and willingness to go above and beyond have made her a reliable and trusted member of our team. She handles every interaction with kindness and care, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome and valued. Alexis’s ability to learn quickly, navigate challenges, and maintain a professional yet approachable presence reflects her strong work ethic and dedication.

We are truly grateful for Alexis’s contributions to KMS. Her positive attitude and commitment to excellence make her an incredible representative of our front office and an integral part of the Eagle family.

Ms. Vannessa Douglas exemplifies the dedication, professionalism, and heart of a true educator. Although serving in a long-term substitute role, she approaches her work with the same passion and commitment as a full-time teacher. Ms. Douglas goes above and beyond to learn the curriculum, design engaging science lessons, and ensure that her students understand and can demonstrate their learning.

Her “mama heart” shines through in everything she does—she wants every student to succeed and is willing to do whatever it takes to help them reach their goals. Whether she’s leading labs, facilitating small group instruction, holding parent conferences, or maintaining classroom expectations, Ms. Douglas models both care and consistency. Her warmth and positivity inspire students and colleagues alike, and her professionalism and drive make her an invaluable part of the KMS family.

We are truly grateful for her contributions and proud to recognize her for her hard work, dedication, and lasting impact on our students and school community.

Mr. Jessie Robinson, owner of Homeworks Construction, has been an incredible supporter of Kannapolis Middle School and a shining example of what true community partnership looks like. We first met Mr. Robinson during last year’s fall parent conferences, where he immediately took an interest in one of our classroom projects—the wooden robot assignment. Without hesitation, he offered access to his job site scraps and surplus materials, eager to help our students bring their ideas to life.

Since that initial meeting, Mr. Robinson has continued to go above and beyond for our school. He has personally supplied every piece of lumber needed for not only three semesters’ worth of student projects but also for several upcoming school improvement initiatives. His generosity has directly impacted our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students, allowing them to engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that would not have been possible otherwise.

Mr. Robinson’s willingness to invest his time, resources, and care into our students speaks volumes about his character and his belief in the power of education. His support has made a lasting difference, and we are truly grateful for his continued partnership and dedication to the success of our school community.

The Board was also pleased to recognize the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month, Victoria Carpenter, theatre teacher, A.L. Brown High School.

Victoria Carpenter is an exceptional educator whose kindness and patience shine through in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond to make her classroom a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for every person who walks through the door.

Ms. Carpenter believes deeply in her students, pushing them to achieve their best while always treating them with respect and compassion. Her classroom is engaging, dynamic, and full of energy—there is never a dull moment. The learning environment she creates inspires both curiosity and confidence in her students.

Teachers across the building could learn so much about effective, student-centered instruction simply by watching Ms. Carpenter in action. She is a true inspiration and a shining example of what it means to teach with heart, dedication, and excellence.

We’re extremely proud to have Victoria Carpenter as a part of our KCS family. We’re also delighted, on behalf of Hilbish Ford, to present her with the Hilbish Ford Teacher of the Month Award for November. Congratulations, Victoria!

Finalist for 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year

Kannapolis City Schools is proud to recognize Ms. August Howerton, fourth-grade teacher at Jackson Park Elementary School, for being named a North Carolina Regional Teacher of the Year finalist. Ms. Howerton began her career in KCS as a student teacher at Shady Brook Elementary and has dedicated her entire professional journey to serving the children and families of our district. Her classroom is known as a place where joy and learning go hand in hand—fueled by her infectious enthusiasm, sense of humor, and remarkable ability to build meaningful relationships with students. She knows her learners deeply, far beyond academics, and consistently finds innovative ways to help them feel challenged, supported, and loved.

Throughout her years in Kannapolis City Schools, Ms. Howerton has distinguished herself as a true teacher leader. She is intentional about extending learning beyond the school day, offering families practical strategies through newsletters, table-talk prompts, and community engagement events. Her impact stretches across Jackson Park Elementary, where she serves as a mentor teacher, an active leader on the School Leadership Team, and chair of the Parent and Community Committee—coordinating major events such as STEM Night and the annual Festival of the Trees. She also manages the school’s social media presence, co-coordinates the yearbook, and serves as the Indistar Process Manager, strengthening schoolwide systems through her collaboration and vision.

Ms. Howerton’s leadership also extends to the district level, where she has contributed significantly to curriculum and instructional design. She has helped develop and refine our Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment documents and played a key role in updating our math Understanding by Design frameworks. Her expertise and insight have directly influenced instructional quality across multiple schools, and her willingness to serve beyond her classroom demonstrates her unwavering commitment to the success of all KCS students.

Additionally, Ms. Howerton is a dedicated lifelong learner, currently pursuing a Master’s in Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction at UNC Charlotte. Her continued growth reflects the very qualities we hope to instill in every student—curiosity, perseverance, and a passion for excellence. Kannapolis City Schools is honored to celebrate August Howerton for her outstanding service, leadership, and heart for education. She represents the absolute best of our profession, and we are incredibly proud to support her as a finalist for Regional Teacher of the Year.

Retiree

Kannapolis City Schools proudly celebrates John Bugaiski, one of our devoted 8th-grade teachers, as he retires after 28 years of dedicated service. Mr. Bugaiski has made a lasting mark on our district through his commitment to students, his passion for teaching, and his ability to spark both academic growth and creativity in the classroom.

Throughout his career, Mr. Bugaiski has gone above and beyond to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. His classroom has always been a welcoming space where curiosity and respect thrive. Among his colleagues, he is admired for his teamwork, professionalism, and the steady kindness he brings to every interaction.

As Mr. Bugaiski begins this exciting new chapter, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for all he has contributed to Kannapolis Middle School. His influence will continue to shape the lives of students and staff for years to come.

We wish him endless happiness, good health, and well-deserved relaxation in retirement. Thank you, Mr. Bugaiski, for your years of dedication and the positive impact you’ve made on our KMS family.