Crossville native Judy Phillips was awarded the Kids First Award at the Cumberland County School Board meeting last night. Ms Phillips is retiring after 51 years with the Cumberland County School System.

In addition to her award, Cumberland County Schools staff wrote a speech about Ms. Phillips’s many years working with children, and the lives she’s touched over the years.

“Ms. Judy Phillips has dedicated fifty-one years of her career to the Special Education Program of Cumberland County Schools. Throughout her tenure, she has served at various institutions, including Homestead Elementary, Glenn Martin Elementary, Cumberland County High School, and Stone Memorial High School, with the last eight years spent in the Transportation Department.

Her unwavering commitment to our school system is truly commendable.

Her devotion to the children of Cumberland County is highly admirable and represents just one of her many outstanding attributes. Ms. Judy is not only an exemplary employee but also a compassionate colleague and a wonderful friend. Her readiness to assist others and her optimistic demeanor are invaluable assets. She consistently exceeds expectations to achieve remarkable outcomes.

Fifty-one years of service transcends mere duration; it embodies a lifetime of commitment, diligence, and enduring influence. It represents not just a figure, but also an accumulation of countless days marked by perseverance and devotion. Over the span of half a century, her unwavering dedication has been evident, and her contributions are beyond measure. She has not only realized her own aspirations
but has also played a pivotal role in the success of numerous others.

The length of service can be measured in years; however, the legacy she has created is timeless. We are recognizing not only the years that Ms. Judy has committed to her position but also the profound impact she has had during this period, as well as the many individuals whose lives she has touched and inspired positively.”