Congratulations to Coltrane-Webb STEM Elementary School data manager Nelida Nunes who has been named the 2024 RISE Award winner for Cabarrus County Schools.

“I truly enjoy coming to work each day,” Nunes said. “My goal, like any other employee, is to do my job well, to earn the trust and respect of my leadership team and peers but most importantly do what I can do in my role of to give the staff what they need to do their jobs or assisting others, to help the community, to give each person I come in contact with, the attention and respect they deserve while doing my best to find resources to solve each issue. It is who I am at my core.

“Recently, there have been significant changes in our community that have put tremendous pressure on students and families that has had an impact beyond education, and on basic human needs, shelter, food, healthcare, for families and members of our community. Whether its answering questions, assisting with the (school) application, helping arrange transportation, assisting in the free lunch application, Care Manager when the school nurse is absent, language translation, working with a community organization to arrange external resources, I take tremendous pride in calming situations, reducing frustration, and making a student’s family life better – even if just a little bit.

“I work in a special caring community at Coltrane-Webb STEM and with Cabarrus County Schools and I am always amazed at how willing my coworkers are willing to help and support each student and family need. We are a truly team. I am sure there are many extremely deserving nominees for this award as I mentioned, I am truly humbled just by my nomination, but the reality is, a smile, watching a student succeed despite obstacles most can’t comprehend, a sincere thank you, seeing the relief in a parent’s face is my reward.

In 2019, Congress passed the Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award, overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, to honor classified school employees who provide exceptional service to students. The North Carolina Governor's Office can nominate two state-wide winners for the national award, with the selection process now open to superintendents and educational organizations. Nominees must demonstrate excellence in work performance, leadership, community involvement, and enhancing the image of classified employees. Classified employees include those in roles such as paraprofessionals, clerical staff, and technical services. The U.S. Department of Education will recognize one national honoree to inspire innovation and excellence in schools.

"Mrs. Nunes exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding classified employee, and her contributions to our school community are truly exceptional,” said Coltrane-Webb STEM Elementary Principal Megan Smith. “Her leadership extends beyond her primary responsibilities; she serves as a backup care manager, interpreter, and a steadfast advocate and friend to the families and students at Coltrane-Webb STEM Elementary School."