Cheers, applause, and heartfelt appreciation filled the Dowd Theater on May 8 as Union County Public Schools hosted the third annual U Awards, honoring outstanding educators during Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.
The evening brought together teachers, administrators, board members, and community partners to celebrate those who go above and beyond for students.
A beautiful start to the event came with a performance by the Cuthbertson High School Chamber Ensemble during the reception. Afterward, Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan welcomed attendees to the ceremony.
“This is one of my favorite events of the year,” Dr. Houlihan said. “It’s an opportunity to recognize the teachers, principals, and staff members who represent the best of UCPS and public education.”
Next, the cast of Annie Jr. from Benton Heights Elementary School of the Arts took the stage with “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The evening’s spotlight shifted to Wingate Elementary’s Yaronda Kilgo, who reflected on her journey as the 2024 UCPS Teacher of the Year and 2025 Southwest Regional Teacher of the Year.
Kilgo shared her deepened appreciation for the school community, from bus drivers to cafeteria staff.
“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us,” she said. “We have an obligation never to stop believing in our students, our future, and our community. Public education is powerful, and it's our duty to protect and celebrate the good that happens in our schools every day.”
Her words captured the essence of the evening—humble, genuine and focused on the power of community.
The awards presentation marked a high point as UCPS leaders announced winners across four categories.
Beginning Teacher of the Year: Kaylee Spencer, Rocky River Elementary
A first-year kindergarten teacher, Spencer has already earned praise for her creative approach and calm presence in the classroom. Her principal described her as a natural—a teacher who brings out the best in students by creating a space where they feel supported and ready to learn.
“I feel so honored to represent UCPS with this award,” Spencer said. “I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. In all I do, I strive to support students, serve them and help them achieve anything they set their minds to. As teachers, we have a profoundly impactful job and must approach it with our hearts.”
Teacher of the Year: Dylan Chavis, Porter Ridge High School
Known for building strong connections with students and designing engaging lessons, Chavis, a social studies teacher, creates a classroom culture grounded in trust, challenge and growth. Colleagues describe him as a teacher who listens, adapts and helps students see their potential.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet, but to say I feel honored is an understatement,” Chavis said. “I’m just so thrilled and honored to have won UCPS Teacher of the Year.”
He continued, “I’m a product of Union County Public Schools—Benton Heights Elementary, Porter Ridge Elementary, Porter Ridge Middle, and Porter Ridge High School—and to be doing this in my fifth year is crazy.”
“And to be teaching at the high school I graduated from—in the classroom I once sat in—it’s just come full circle,” he said. “It’s super exciting. But just being there for my students—that’s my why. Everything else is a bonus.”
Assistant Principal of the Year: Alanna Smith, Weddington High School
Smith is well known for her steady leadership and student-first mindset. Whether she’s problem-solving with staff or offering guidance to students, she brings a calm, solutions-focused presence to everything she does.
“I’m extremely honored to receive this award,” Smith said. “I’ve said this from the beginning—it’s not about me. It’s about the students, the teachers and the community I get to impact.”
She added, “It’s important to have mentors. From the time I got my first teaching job, Dr. Kevin Plue was an integral part of who I was. He saw talents in me that I didn’t always recognize and encouraged me to take the next step. Even now, working under Dr. Jeff Kraftson, it’s the same. He’s constantly allowing me to grow and put myself out there.”
Principal of the Year: Dr. Brian Patience, Sun Valley Middle School
Under Patience’s leadership, Sun Valley Middle has thrived as a learning community. Known for setting high expectations while supporting every student and staff member, he has helped shape a culture built on accountability, empathy and excellence.
“I feel honored to win the award,” Patience said. “It’s not an individual award—it’s a collaborative award for all of our staff, students, families and parents. It’s great to have the effort we’re putting in be recognized.”
He continued, “Being a school leader is about encouraging and motivating students to believe in themselves. We’re trying to inspire them to grow every single day. We’re proud of that, and we will continue to push our students and support their success.”
Each winner received a plaque and a financial award from the Union County Education Foundation.
Dr. Houlihan concluded by thanking everyone involved in the celebration, emphasizing that the collective effort of all makes UCPS exceptional.
Afterward, he reflected on the significance of the night.
“Congratulations to all of our finalists and educators who were honored tonight,” he said. “We have the absolute best teachers and principals in North Carolina. Our winners are extraordinary teachers, educators and leaders in their building. We have high hopes for them and believe they’re well-positioned to earn recognition at the state level. It’s an exciting night. We couldn’t be prouder.”
As the audience left the theater and the winners posed for photos, the sense of pride was unmistakable. The U Awards may last just one night, but the impact of the people it honors lasts far longer.
05/09/2025
