WINFIELD -- Debra Moore, who divides her time as school secretary between Scott Teays Elementary and George Washington Middle School, has been named the Putnam County Schools 2008-2009 Service Employee of the Year.
Moore has served at Scott Teays and George Washington Middle for 14 of her 32 years in the school system. Before that, she was a counselor's secretary at Poca Middle, Poca High, George Washington Middle, Buffalo High and Putnam Career & Technical School. She worked for three years as a kindergarten aide at George Washington Elementary.
Having responsibility for maintaining enrollment, grades, attendance and other reports for the state education department, she frequently attends trainings on the West Virginia Education Information System in the county and at RESA III.
As the George Washington hot lunch secretary, who maintains all records for the school's meal program, she frequently completes trainings on this as well.
"I love my job and working with WVEIS, so I feel I can generate or input anything asked of me," she said. "If I don't know, I find out how and get the job done.
"I do truly care about our students and have always done my best to treat each and every one as I would want my own to be treated."
Moore sums up her feelings about her 32 years in Putnam County Schools by saying, "It just takes dedication and practice, but when you love your job and respect and feel appreciated, the job is so much easier."
She added, "It's all about the students, and I believe Putnam County has the best, and I'm proud to be part of that. If I can make a difference with a smile or anything, I will."