VCS Announces Superintendent’s Outstanding Achievement Award Winners

The School District of Volusia County and FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools named Debra Keese, registrar at Cypress Creek Elementary School, and Sherry Shepherd, school bus operator in the DeLand area, as the 2018 Superintendent's Outstanding Achievement Award winners (see photos below).

Mrs. Keese is described in a letter of recommendation from Assistant Principal Rebecca Pitchford as making the school a better place "through her creativity, intellect, thoroughness, efficiency, personality and willingness to do whatever it takes."  With 20 years of experience with Volusia County Schools, Mrs. Keese is an expert in her job role and is readily available to lend a hand wherever there is a need.

Ms. Shepherd has been employed by the school district for 23 years and understands the impact bus operators have on students as the first person they see on their way to school every day.  She also knows consistency plays a role in student success, so she strives to maintain a daily presence.  In the past 11 years, she has had perfect attendance with only 6.5 days missed during her entire career.   "She is adaptable, collaborative, dependable and mission-minded.  In my years of working in the Volusia County School district, I have met very few professionals in the realm of Sherry Shepherd," stated Mitch Moyer, director of student transportation services, in a letter of recommendation.

The Superintendent's Outstanding Achievement Award is co-sponsored annually by FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools and Volusia County Schools.  It was initiated to honor support staff members who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, teamwork, cooperation and innovation in their jobs.

All 24 nominees will be honored at a breakfast on Aug. 30 hosted by FUTURES.  Nominees for the Superintendent's Outstanding Achievement Award include: