For Immediate Release: April 14, 2022
Contact: Charles Pyle (804) 371-2420
RICHMOND — Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow sent personal greetings this week to recognize Buchanan County cafeteria manager Snoda Compton and Augusta County instructional aide Jill Williams. Compton and Williams were selected last fall as Virginia’s 2022 nominees for the U.S. Department of Education’s Recognizing Inspirational School Employees Award, also known as the RISE Award.
The RISE Award — created by Congress in 2019 — honors classified school employees, such as clerical, school nutrition, health, pupil transportation and custodial staff, who provide exemplary service to students and their communities.
“Snoda Compton and Jill Williams epitomize the thousands of dedicated and caring support staff in our schools who play a vital role in supporting student success and creating welcoming learning environments for all children,” Balow said. “Their efforts during the challenging circumstances of the last 12 months have been nothing short of extraordinary. I want to make sure they know how much I appreciate their dedication, and I want to make sure they receive the recognition they deserve.”
Compton is the cafeteria manager at Hurley Elementary/Middle School. According to Principal Ruth Tester, Compton exemplified selfless service as she assisted students and staff members during the floods that swept through the county in August 2021. In addition, Compton is known for her involvement in extracurricular activities and community groups, including the school’s Parent Teacher Organization and the Boys and Girls Club. A video about Compton is available on the Buchanan County Public Schools YouTube channel.
Williams is an instructional aide at Stuarts Draft Elementary School. Colleagues describe Williams as a highly engaged member of her school community who provides support in reading instruction and assists other staff members whenever a need arises. Principal Tina Bowersox says Williams has an incredible work ethic and displays an authentic desire to connect with and help students every day. A video about Williams is available on the Augusta County Public Schools YouTube channel.
In February, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recognized Keeley Anderson, an intervention specialist at Newcastle Middle School in Newcastle, Wyoming, as the 2022 RISE Award recipient.
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