Kelli Moore “just shines through her kindness and genuine care” and that bright demeanor led to her being selected as the firstever Diamond Award winner.
The newly created Diamond Award was given to Moore at the school system’s county-wide meeting Friday morning.
Moore is a kindergarten paraprofessional at Blackshear Elementary.
School superintendent Dara Bennett said the district- wide award will be presented every year.”Our Diamond Award winner will be someone who demonstrates the true heart of a Pierce County Bear. This person should consistently go above and beyond to make excellence the standard in all that they do,” said Bennett.
Blackshear Elementary Principal Mandy Williams says Moore is very deserving of the award.
“This recognition is a testament to her exceptional dedication, tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to the students and staff at Blackshear Elementary,” Williams said.
The principal said Blackshear Elementary is “incredibly fortunate” to have Moore.
“Kelli’s kindness and genuine care for everyone in the school community shines through in every interaction, making a profound impact on both her colleagues and the students she serves. Her ability to blend hard work with a loving, supportive attitude exemplifies the best qualities of an educator and mentor. We are incredibly fortunate to have someone of Kelli's caliber at Blackshear Elementary, and this award is a well-deserved celebration of her remarkable contributions.”
Moore says she is very humbled by the recognition.
She worked for the school system as a substitute teacher for several years, when she felt led to go fulltime. She has been a kindergarten paraprofessional for 12 years.
“It is very rewarding work for me,” she said. “I love being around kids. I try to be there for them, but the truth is they give me a lot more in return — including the best hugs.”
Moore is married to Kevin Moore and they have two children, Taylor Moore and Madison Hodges. She is a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church.
Kelli Moore has been named as the first-ever Diamond Award winner for Pierce County Schools.
