The “Be Golden” award is a faculty and staff recognition program at the high school. It is given to a teacher or staff that is making a difference at Tyrone.

This award is given weekly by a faculty/staff member to another faculty/staff member. Whoever receives the trophy on Friday is responsible for awarding it to someone else the following week. The only criteria are to give it to someone who has done something to make the school a better place.

“With the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiative in our school, we want to not only recognize students for being golden but staff members as well,” said Shannon Davis, the award program coordinator. “This is a way to personally thank people we work with every day, but don’t always have the chance to show them how much they are appreciated.”

Last week the award went to band teacher and director Mr. David Hock.

He chose to give the award to paraprofessional Mrs. Vanya Davis.

Mr. Hock quote:

“Vanya is a paraprofessional with learning support. While I don’t work with her directly during the school day, I have seen her work with band students now that her own son is in the marching band. She is very kind and you can count on her for a smile or a laugh. Vanya volunteered her time during the marching band season this year as a chaperone on our many trips and events. She was willing and open to help the students when in need, and helped me out a lot as well. She always talks to the students in a very kind and respectful manner and you can tell that students respect and like her. For her enthusiasm and the help that she gives, I nominate Vanya for the Be GOLDEN award.”

The Eagle Eye interviewed Mrs. Davis about being this week’s award winner:

Eagle Eye: Why did you go into education?

Vanya Davis: “There’s something so gratifying about helping a student who has trouble learning something finally grasp a difficult concept. Learning what motivates students to help them better themselves is an experience like non-other. I love knowing that I can better the world by helping educate our future leaders.” 

EE: What makes Tyrone a good place to work?

VD: “I appreciate everyone I work with each day. They make me want to be the best paraprofessional I can be. Tyrone has so many amazing students – I look forward to seeing them every day”

EE: What is your favorite memory at Tyrone?

VD: “Although this is my first year at Tyrone, I already have so many wonderful memories. My favorite moment was when several students who struggled with writing in the past received A’s on their compositions.  I’m so proud of how hard all my students work!”