Employee of the Month

Greensboro, N.C. – As a public education system, we have a commitment to serve all students in Guilford County. Sometimes, a scholar requires personalized instruction in alternative settings to meet academic needs. One of these spaces in Guilford County Schools is Dean B. Pruette SCALE Academy, which serves as an opportunity for every single one of our scholars to pursue a pathway to success.  

One educator creating those opportunities is Dr. Marsha Joyce-Tatum. She teaches incarcerated students through Pruette SCALE Academy, seeking ways to instill a love for learning through engaging activities.  

Fellow teacher Zoretta Hayes says, “She consistently demonstrates exceptional excellence in her work with incarcerated youth. She goes far beyond her job duties, investing her time and personal resources to ensure students feel valued and supported. Challenge Day—where she creates engaging Jeopardy‑style activities and personally provides snacks and treats—transforms ordinary moments into meaningful, motivating experiences. She is deeply committed to literacy, continually seeking new resources or using her own money to keep the library filled with exciting, relevant books that inspire students to read and imagine brighter futures.   

“Her impact extends beyond academics. She is a joy to work with—always positive, professional, and supportive of both students and colleagues. She encourages students daily, celebrates their successes, and shows genuine care through small gestures that build trust and confidence. She performs and elevates her role; bringing hope, dignity, and encouragement to a population that needs it most.” 

Joyce-Tatum's dedication to her students and creative instruction led to her nomination and selection as Employee of the Month for February.  

Joyce-Tatum received a $50 gift card courtesy of the Greensboro Jaycees. During the month of February, her photo will be displayed at the district’s central offices, at Pruette SCALE Academy and in the Greensboro Jaycees office.   

Nominations for Employee of the Month can be made using this form.  

Greensboro, N.C. – There are many individuals beyond teachers working in our schools that make an impact on our scholars every day. From nutrition workers serving lunch to custodians saying hello as they clean, each staff member has the opportunity to change a student’s life for the better.  

Benjamin Higgins never takes this opportunity for granted as a general assistant at Vandalia Elementary, working hard to build relationships with both students and their families.  

Colleague and school counselor Taylor Daye wrote, “Mr. Higgins is truly the man! He is the TA for grades 3-5 but still makes time to be involved with K-2. We have an enrichment period where he leads small groups for each of the grade levels. He is always willing to help, if you ask him to or not. He truly goes above and beyond with our students. Many of our male students see him as a good mentor. Mr. Higgins is also the head of the boys group we have here at Vandalia which promotes manhood and leadership in our young men. Aside from our students he also knows the parents. This is a huge asset especially during dismissal. He and several other males in the building conduct the smoothest and safest procedure for our car riders.” 

Higgins’ presence at the school is deeply appreciated and felt, earning him the nomination for Employee of the Month for January. He was surprised with the news by cheers from students, staff and his family.  

Higgins received a $50 gift card courtesy of the Greensboro Jaycees. During the month of January, his photo will be displayed at the district’s central offices, at Vandalia Elementary and in the Greensboro Jaycees office.   

Nominations for Employee of the Month can be made using this form. 

Greensboro, N.C. – Cone Elementary is housed in a building with a rich history dating back to 1935. As an older school building, it has its share of maintenance challenges. But if you took a walk through the halls, the first thing you would notice is the shine of the floors, clear glass windows and faint smell of cleaner.  

This is thanks to the efforts of facility specialist Larry Joe. He takes pride in providing a clean environment to the staff and students of Cone, describing how it brings him joy and satisfaction tackling projects as they come along. This hard work is not unnoticed by his colleagues and students at the school.  

“Mr. Joe works tirelessly—including weekends—to keep the building in excellent condition,” wrote Victoria Witherspoon, kindergarten transition coordinator, in one of many nominations. “He serves as a role model for students and a supportive colleague who brings encouragement, motivation and a positive, uplifting presence in the Cougar community.” 

Joe’s dedication to Cone Elementary’s building and community earned him the title of Employee of the Month for November. The school gathered to celebrate him with a parade in the halls, where students held signs with messages of gratitude.  

Joe received a $50 gift card courtesy of the Greensboro Jaycees. During the month of November, his photo will be displayed at the district’s central offices, at Cone Elementary and in the Greensboro Jaycees office.   

Nominations for Employee of the Month can be made using this form.