In front of a large and enthusiastic audience at the May 12 Moore County Board of Education meeting, students, staff, and volunteers were honored as part of the Engage. Inspire. Succeed initiative.
“We are proud to recognize this month’s incredible group of students, staff, and volunteers whose achievements, dedication, and spirit truly Engage, Inspire, and lead to Success across Moore County Schools,” said the school district on social media. “Each honoree brings something unique to our school communities — through art, leadership, support, and service — and sets a powerful example of excellence for others to follow. Thank you for all that you do to uplift our schools and students every day. You make Moore County Schools stronger, brighter, and better!”
The following information was contributed by the school district:
Amanda Toner, West End Elementary School, Certified Staff
Toner is a champion for every student, working tirelessly to understand and support their diverse needs—academically and emotionally. In addition to individual counseling, she creates a positive school climate with engaging activities that foster community. Her genuine passion lies in seeing students succeed and celebrating their achievements. Her unwavering encouragement and dedication help create a nurturing environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Lori Brewer, West End Elementary School, Support Staff
Brewer is the unsung hero, ensuring the school operates seamlessly. She manages student records, attendance, and state reporting with precision and care. Always a team player, she supports staff with data needs and does so with a consistently positive attitude. Her love for the school shows in her dedication and her ability to foster a welcoming, supportive environment for students and colleagues. Her meticulous work and collaborative spirit are invaluable to the school’s success.
Jen Cuff, West Pine Elementary School, Certified Staff
Cuff, a third-grade teacher and West Pine Elementary’s 2025–26 Teacher of the Year, is a Meredith College graduate who has taught since 2001. She has served in kindergarten, second and third grades, and has positively impacted WPE since joining in 2016. Cuff is a valued member of the School Improvement Team, assists with the robotics team, and teaches summer reading camp. Her collaborative spirit, dedication, and positivity make her a vital part of the WPE community and a beloved colleague to all.
Cathy Bryant, West Pine Elementary School, Support Staff
After years of being self-employed, Bryant joined WPE as a second-grade TA in 2023, driven by her passion for helping children grow. She loves the joy on students’ faces when learning clicks, especially in second grade—where independence blossoms but support is still cherished. She lives in Cameron with her husband and three dogs and enjoys time with her two sons and grandson. Her nurturing heart and commitment make her a treasured member of the WPE family.
Megan Jones, West Pine Middle School, Certified Staff
Jones is a dedicated special education teacher who works tirelessly to support student success. Whether teaching in small groups, pushing into classrooms, or collaborating with peers, her passion for education is clear. Known for her smile and kind words, she builds strong relationships with students and families alike. She also volunteers at the Wildcat concession stand and supports PBIS events. A true servant leader, Jones is a blessing to West Pine Middle and our community.
Penelope McCaskill, West Pine Middle School, Support Staff
McCaskill is an exceptional custodian who keeps WPM among the cleanest schools in Moore County—and she also drives a school bus each day. Her dedication to keeping the building clean and students safe does not go unnoticed. She ensures students start and end their day on a positive note, with kindness and care. Her reliability, patience, and friendly attitude make her an essential part of our school family. The school is very grateful for all that she does.
Elisa Lykins, Connect Academy, Student
Lykins is an exemplary student with straight A’s and a 4.0 unweighted GPA. She will graduate having completed the Emergency Medical Science program at Sandhills Community College (SCC) and plans to begin work as an EMT. Elisa also coaches gymnastics, teaches piano, and tutors biology at SCC. She has served in multiple leadership roles at her church, including class president, youth camp leader, and congregation chorister. Elisa is a model citizen, and the school is incredibly proud of all she has accomplished during her time as a Moore County Schools student.
Additional Recognitions:
Artwork Displayed in Boardroom
The following students’ artwork was chosen to represent each Moore County School in the boardroom at the Central Office for the 2024-2025 school year:
Elementary: Miki Dudley, Aberdeen; Meredith Gonzalez, Cameron; Gia Blake, Carthage; Desaree Hill, Highfalls; Mark Dwyer, McDeeds Creek; Luca Pinter, Pinehurst; Brittany Avila Reyes, Robbins; Madelyn Spencer, Sandhills Farm Life; Noriyah King, Southern Pines; Annalise Craven, Vass-Lakeview; Dominic Thomas, West End; Wyatt Davis, West Pine; and Nirvana Kinley, Westmoore.
Middle: Bexayda Nufio Garcia, Crain’s Creek; Ailyn Puquir Peralta, Elise; Promise Dockery, New Century; Adison Blanchet, Southern Middle; and Ashlyn Hall, West Pine.
High: Jonas Angeles, North Moore; Kenny Williamson, Pinecrest; and Linden Sprouse, Union Pines.
2024-2025 Area 2 Volunteers of the Year:
Mayra Ramirez De Paz, Elise Middle School
Shelby Wilson, Highfalls Elementary School
Karen Dunn, North Moore High School
Lucy Salazar, Robbins Elementary School
Connie Mabe-Ramey, Westmoore Elementary School
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Article and photos contributed by the Moore County Schools.
