Cumberland County Schools (CCS) is excited to announce the October awardees of two prestigious honors! John Vines, a custodian at E. Melvin Honeycutt Elementary School, has been recognized with the Extra Mile Award. Rusty Hinton, the general manager at LaFayette Ford, and the dealership have been selected as the recipients of the Committed Community Support Award for their outstanding support and dedication to CCS.

Extra Mile Award Recipient John Vines

The Extra Mile Award honors employees who continually demonstrate exceptional performance and motivate others to pursue excellence.

John Vines, October's Award recipient, was chosen because of his commitment to 'spread joy' through his beautification efforts at the school. Vines brings flower baskets to line the breezeway so that staff and students are welcomed with an array of colors and the fragrance of fresh flowers.

E. Melvin Honeycutt Elementary Principal Felix M. Keyes shared details about how Vines, a retired agriculture teacher, has served. "Mr. Vines uses his own funds to beautify the school and is often there on weekends pruning and weeding," said Keyes. Perry Moses, a teacher assistant at the school, spoke about seeing Vines in action. "Not only does Mr. Vines bring the flowers and care for them, he goes the 'extra mile' and changes the flower baskets out with the seasons. In addition, he planted a garden to honor the memory of a student we lost last school year. We are fortunate to have Mr. Vines at Honeycutt Elementary."

Extra Mile Award Winner John Vines, (second from left) celebrates with district and school staff.

 Committed Community Support Award Recipient Rusty Hinton at LaFayette Ford

The Committed Community Support Award is awarded to an individual or group, recognizing their selfless support of the school system. October's winner, General Manager Rusty Hinton and the LaFayette Ford dealership, extend support to CCS in various meaningful ways that include donating gifts to the 'Of the Year' celebration honorees, offering monthly oil changes for 12 individuals at a district school as a token of appreciation and hosting a fundraiser in November to benefit Stedman Elementary.

Cross Creek Early College High School (CCECHS) Principal Christian Qually shared comments about how the company has supported his school. "LaFayette Ford sponsored our school this year by donating funds to help pay for staff shirts and meals for our returning work days. The remaining funds will also help with teacher appreciation."

 Committed Community Support Award Winner Rusty Hinton, the general manager at LaFayette Ford (center), celebrates with CCECHS

 Nominate An Award Recipient

Any permanent full-time or part-time employee is eligible for the Extra Mile Award. Submit your nominations by the 10th of each month here. For more information about CCS’ Extra Mile Award, visit the CCS Human Resources website.

The Committed Community Support Award is for mentors, businesses, community partners, parents and volunteers who dedicate their time and resources to assist schools and help students succeed. Submit your nominations by the 10th of each month here.

A selection committee reviews nominations on a monthly basis and selects one winner for each award. Winners are recognized during the Cumberland County Board of Education’s regular monthly meetings from October through May.