Debra Moore, who divides her time as school secretary between Scott Teays Elementary and George Washington Middle School, has earned recognition for her outstanding service as the Putnam County Schools 2008-2009 Service Employee of the Year. She was chosen from among all service employees who were selected by their schools as outstanding employees.

Moore has served at Scott Teays and George Washington Middle for fourteen of her thirty-two years in Putnam County Schools. Before that, she was a counselor’s secretary at Poca Middle, Poca High, George Washington Middle, Buffalo High, and Putnam Career & Technical School. She worked for three years as a kindergarten aide at George Washington Elementary.

Always eager to update her skills, Moore attends numerous trainings and workshops to keep herself current in the requirements of the position. Having responsibility for maintaining enrollment, grades, attendance and other WVDE reports, she frequently attends trainings on the West Virginia Education Information System, or WVEIS, in the county and at RESA III. As the GW Hot Lunch Secretary who maintains all records for the school’s meal program, she frequently completes trainings on this, as well. “I love my job and working with WVEIS, so I feel I can generate or input anything asked of me,” she says. “If I don’t know, I find out how and get the job done,” she adds.

Moore was chosen for more than her expertise in the office, however. Her recognition also comes for the effort and love she puts into her work for the students. “I do truly care about our students and have always done my best to treat each and every one as I would want my own to be treated,” she states.

Moore sums up her feelings about her 32 years in Putnam County Schools by saying, “It just takes dedication and practice, but when you love your job and respect and feel appreciated, the job is so much easier.” But once again, Moore cites her love of the students and pride in the system as key to her success. “It’s all about the students, and I believe Putnam County has the best, and I’m proud to be part of that,’ she states. If I can make a difference with a smile or anything, I will.”

Making a difference for her students, staff, and school community have earned well-deserved respect and appreciation for Debra Moore, Putnam County Schools 2008-2009 Service Employee of the Year.