Skip to main content
Mobile Menu
BVPS » Best of the Bearcats » 2024 January BEST Winners

2024 January BEST Winners

Noah Ashbrook
  • Noah Ashbrook, Nominated by a Colleague

Mr. Ashbrook is a prime example of what makes BVPS great and functional on a daily basis.  His tireless dedication to all of us in the system sets him apart as a true leader. His personal sacrifices are rare and deserve to be highlighted.  True leadership does not depend on the title or position but on the sole desire of an individual to put others before themselves.  He provides a place for students to go without worry.  He attends meetings multiple times per week on behalf of BVEA representing faculty and staff.  In addition to leading the VHS academic team, and volunteering any time he is asked, he is still one of the first people in the building in the morning and often the last to leave. 

Wendy Edwards

  • Wendy Edwards, Nominated by a Colleague

Ms. Edwards has a lot of patience with the students.  Some students don’t like music or speaking in front of crowds but by concert time are all involved and want to their best.  Her passion for the students to learn is second to none.  She is able to bring out the best in each student.  Ms. Edwards lets all of the students have speaking parts in concerts and everyone is involved and no student is left out.  Before the concerts she will bring in pizza for everyone so they will be at their best.  When you are good at something you don’t really have to be told but I believe she needs to be recognized for what she is and that is one of the best of the bearcats.  BVPS is lucky to have her.

Angel Hudson BEST of the Bearcats JAN

  • Angel Hudson, Nominated by a Colleague

The “BEST” starts with Be the Difference, and Angel lives her life with the purpose of making a positive difference not just in those around her but also in her community. Enriching Relationships is something Angel takes personal pride in. She always lifts others up, not for her own success but so they might succeed. We could not have Student Excellence without Angel working hard at job postings, hiring, and onboarding in the division’s Human Resources Department. Angel ensures that the HR Department works with the utmost integrity and maintains some of the best hiring procedures. Angel is a Treasured Colleague and is a leading force in what makes the BEST of the Bearcats the best, so on behalf of all faculty and staff, thank you for all that you do. Also, Angel has spent months organizing the Wellness Event for the employees of BVPS. She also joined efforts with the Bristol City to make the event even bigger and better. This demonstrates her ability to work well with others outside the division and also brought in more vendors that would benefit BVPS staff. Aside from the Wellness Event, Angel is constantly trying to think up ways to recognize and support all staff members. She has a very genuine heart and is selfless.

Kaitlin Owens BEST of the Bearcats JAN

  • Kaitlin Owens, Nominated by a Colleague

Ms. Owens comes in to work early to complete pre-work duties that is assigned in her position.  She puts in lunch orders, gets breakfast, and gathers student supports.  She sees what is needed and takes care of it.   Kaitlin volunteers in organizations outside of school to be a support for our students.  She is a leader in our community.  She is a “soft person” and all of our students needs a “soft place” to fall on their hardest days.  Kaitlin uses kindness and love in her tone and expressions.  She truly shows others love – she does not just say it. 

Christi Whitaker BEST Award  JAN

  • Christi Whitaker, Nominated by a Colleague

Ms. Whitaker always stays calm and leads by example.  Even though she could have been paid to stay home during the snow she came in to work to make sure breakfast and lunch where available to our students.  Ms. Whitaker is always kind and caring to our students.  Sometimes the kitchen can get to over a hundred degrees and the tempers of staff can also rise.  She calmly navigates and de-escalates during these times as a true leader.