BY KARISSA MILLER
Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education member Abby Trent believes it’s important to recognize local teachers and staff who are going the extra mile to support students.
She expressed her appreciation for Statesville High School’s staff by providing them lunch from Chick-fil-A lunch one day last week.
“I know that the teachers and staff are doing the absolute best that they can. I wanted to show them that I appreciate everything that they do, as well as Principal Parker, because I know it’s not an easy job,” Trent said.
The lunchtime visit gave her an opportunity to meet the teachers and staff while letting them get to know her as a new board member.
Trent’s mom, Angela Matthews, and community member Tom Snyder helped her hand out the food.
The staff was pleasantly surprised and set a positive tone for teachers.
“While it seems like a simple thing, it really made the staff feel appreciated,” history teacher Micah Durham said.
“Unless you have been a teacher, you don’t recognize how much something as simple as lunch really means,” civics and economics teacher Sandra Thorne added. “Teachers have so much on their plate, having to make so many decisions for students, their families, and themselves every day, someone providing lunch is one less thing to worry about.”
Trent said that it made her feel good to know that she could put a smile on their faces.
New Reading Program at N.B. Mills
Trent said she has been focused on getting to know the staff at the schools in her district. She started a reading initiative program at N.B. Mills Elementary School. She brings in community volunteers through a partnership with Front Street Baptist Church to read to students in different classrooms.
A team of nine volunteers, including retired teachers, has participated in the effort. Trent said she has enjoyed meeting the students.
“I want to do my part, and help any way I can,” said Trent, a 2016 South Iredell High School graduate.
What a genuinely nice thing to do for the staff! Has something like this ever happened before? I am glad it was provided directly to the teachers on the front line! Has anyone on the board ever done such a deed in the past? Those teachers and likely their families will remember this when they vote!
You are correct Charles; it’s all about the votes.
Well the other members who are demeaning, arrogant, and ignorant could take a lesson. They are depending on contempt for the profession for their votes.
That is a very nice thing to do. Teachers do have a very difficult job and most times it goes unnoticed or unappreciated. Great job, Ms. Trent!
I am proud to have Ms. Trent as our District 3 representative on the school board. Keep up the GREAT work!
I always give good deeds the benefit of the doubt, but also keep in mind that there is no such thing as a free lunch.
Well said.