Holly Springs Optimist Club Honors Outstanding Students & Staff

The Holly Springs Optimist Club on Monday honored CCSD students and staff at its annual Middle School Awards breakfast, which recognizes outstanding special needs students and their supportive teachers and staff.  The event celebrates the unique qualities that our special needs students bring to each of their schools and how connections with community are important to students growing more, learning more and achieving more in CCSD schools.

The 2026 honorees are:

Creekland MS: Sebastian Trujillo, Presented by Maria Laucella

Dean Rusk MS: Samy Sarazua, Presented by Amanda Verner

E.T. Booth MS: Jax Rittman, Presented by Lori Salvino

L.R. Tippens Education Center: Makai Francis, Presented by Dane Holcomb

Mill Creek MS: Thea Tappan, Presented by Valerie Dunn

Teasley MS: Leah Dixon, Presented by Susan Donlin                             

Woodstock MS: Logan Arnold, Presented by Naomi Barajas

Each student was honored by his or her teacher, who shared a few words about the qualities exhibited by the student and their impact on the school community.

The teacher award for Outstanding Achievement in Education went to Jessica Worley of Woodstock Middle School.

“Ms. Worley is always optimistic about her students meeting and exceeding their goals; she goes above and beyond to add a personal touch to each learning experience,” said Assistant Principal LaShonda Tucker.  “She connects meaningfully with students, families, and colleagues alike. We are truly blessed to have her at WMS and grateful for the passion and positivity she brings to our school community each day.”

The Paraprofessional of the Year award went to Lois Young from ET Booth Middle School.

“Working alongside her has made me a better teacher,” said Lori Solvino, who nominated Lois for the award.  “Lois consistently goes the extra mile for the greater good of our students, our program, and our school community. She has an incredible ability to support students with compassion, patience, and respect that extends far beyond the classroom walls. Her dedication to our very special population is rare and deeply valued.”

Students received trophies and had photos made with their teachers. The staff awards included plaques and a potted plant.  Superintendent of Schools Mary Elizabeth Davis opened the event by thanking the students, the teachers, families and members of the Optimist Club for their contributions and support. Senior staff from CCSD’s Academics & Accountability, including Special Education, attended the event, along with School Leadership & Operations. Members of the Optimist Club closed out the program reciting the Optimist Creed. #ElevateTheExcellence