
Excitement filled the air as Cumberland County Schools proudly announced Kimberly Wilson, a dedicated teacher assistant at Morganton Road Elementary School (MRES), as its 2026 Teacher Assistant of the Year (TAOY) during the district’s annual celebration reception at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens.
With a decade of service as both a teacher assistant and bus driver, Wilson has distinguished herself through her commitment to students and staff. In the nomination packet, MRES Principal Tiana Thompson highlighted Wilson’s flexibility, dedication and unwavering support as qualities that make her an exceptional Instructional Assistant.
“With students, she [Wilson] is encouraging, patient and consistent, helping them stay focused and confident in their learning,” said Thompson in the nomination. “Ms. Wilson's reliability and supportive nature create a sense of stability, making both students and staff feel valued, supported and motivated to succeed.”
A family affair: Along with a full staff, Owner Eddie Claude and his wife Ruth (pictured right) work with their kids to run the restaurant. Eddie is a Veteran who served for 21 years in the U.S. Army. Photos by YGH STUDIOS & GFBJ. The Fayett
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Proposed incorporation boundary (pink) · Gray’s Creek, Cumberland County, N.C. This is a working draft and is subject to revision. Image courtesy of grayscreeknc.com. After decades as an unincorporated rural community in Cumberland County, Gray’