LCSAEOP Names Heath Office Professional of the Year, Jones Administrator of the Year
The Lenoir County Schools Association of Educational Office Professionals (LCSAEOP) gathered last Thursday for its annual banquet, a celebration of service, scholarship, and excellence across the district. The event featured the installation of new officers, recognition of student scholarship recipients, and the presentation of two of the organization’s highest honors: Educational Office Professional of the Year and Administrator of the Year.
Ashley Heath, Administrative Assistant for Media and Technology, was named the 2025 Education Office Professional of the Year. Dr. Amy Jones, Career and Technical Education and High School Director for Lenoir County Public Schools, was recognized as Administrator of the Year.
Heath, an active member of LCSAEOP since 2022, is widely admired for her professionalism and passion for growth, both personal and organizational. In a statement shared in her nomination form, Heath reflected on what membership in the N.C. Association of Educational Office Professionals has meant to her.
“NCAEOP has put a push in me that I want to go to the next level in professional growth, and to be an inspiration to others that become a part of this great organization,” she wrote.
Those who work alongside Heath say she lives out that mission every day.
“Her willingness to assist others, her problem-solving skills, and her unwavering professionalism make her highly respected among her colleagues,” wrote Student Information System Coordinator Shelia Heath, in a recommendation letter supporting her nomination. “She embodies the qualities of an exemplary educational office professional, making her truly deserving of this award.”
Charles White, LCPS Technology Director and Heath’s supervisor, echoed that praise.
“As my administrative assistant, Ashley has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and dedication to excellence in every aspect of her role,” White said. “Her contributions to our department, the EOP organization, and the broader school district make her an outstanding recipient of this recognition.”
Dr. Amy Jones, a member of LCSAEOP since 2014, accepted her award virtually via FaceTime—away from the banquet to receive a grant award for LCPS. Even from a distance, her presence and impact were felt.
“Dr. Jones has spent her career dedicated to the social and academic well-being of both students and staff in Lenoir County,” said Christel Carlyle, Director of Middle Grades. “She has always prioritized forming positive relationships with her school community and increasing academic and scholastic opportunities for ALL students. Her passion for education this year, and every year, qualifies her for this award.”
Frances Herring, LCPS Associate Superintendent, highlighted Dr. Jones’s unique ability to lead with clarity and care.
“Dr. Jones is undoubtedly one of the smartest women I have had the honor of working alongside,” Herring said. “She can assess a situation quickly, provide appropriate support and determine next steps without even flinching. She is an outstanding person and dependable beyond measure.”
Also honored at the banquet were the recipients of the LCSAEOP Scholarship. Thanks to strong community support and successful fundraising efforts, the organization awarded each of this year’s recipients a $500 scholarship.
Congratulations to:
● Abby Holloman, South Lenoir High School
● Melissa Espino, North Lenoir High School
● Saiyanah Becton, Kinston High School
These scholarships are a testament to the values LCSAEOP upholds—supporting education, empowering professionals, and investing in the next generation of leaders, and the banquet served as a powerful reminder of the dedication and professionalism that drive the success of Lenoir County Public Schools every day.
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