On Tuesday, Dec. 17,  Cumberland County Schools (CCS) administrators made a surprise visit to the Central Services office of Saundra McNeill, the manager of Student Assignment. McNeill was stunned to learn that she had been selected as the 2024 Dr. Joseph Locklear/Ricky Lopes Central Services Employee of the Year Award recipient.

"I was very shocked when they walked into my office because I've done this for a long time, and I don't do it for recognition," said McNeill in a press release. "It's great to be appreciated but I just like to help people when I can."

McNeill, who has worked in this position for 16 years and in CCS for 31 years, was chosen by the district's principals and assistant principals to receive the distinguished honor. 

The nomination form highlighted McNeill's outstanding work ethic, describing her as an invaluable resource for everyone. It emphasized her ability to handle a high volume of calls and inquiries about student assignments with remarkable knowledge, delivering exceptional service with unmatched professionalism.

The nomination further praised McNeill's remarkable dedication, stating: "Saundra manages some of our most difficult cases and she coordinates this effort across the CCS Student Assignment Office. She is truly 'an unsung hero.' I know how many times I've had to inquire about student situations and she handles them with poise and perfection. She's never been too busy to assist and she's never redirected me. She always finds the answers. I'm certain that this occurs countless times each day and for countless administrators and other staff. It's one thing to 'do your job' and quite another to do it with passion, professionalism and that 'extra sprinkle of care' that allows people to feel heard and supported and not just handled."

This award was established in 2015 to honor the legacy of Dr. Joseph Locklear and Ricky Lopes. Both of these school administrators gave unselfishly to Cumberland County Schools for many years. The school system created the award to honor their legacy and recognize deserving employees for their outstanding work. Each year, a school administrator chairs the committee that selects the award winner. Principals are asked to nominate Central Services employees who they feel are deserving of this recognition. The Cumberland County Association of Principals and Assistant Principals (CCAPAP) President, Dr. Queesha Tillman from Seventy-First Classical Middle School, served as the chair of this year's selection committee.