Austin Road Middle’s School Office Assistant Named HCS 2025 Educational Support Person of the Year

 

 

HENRY COUNTY, GA – Lisa Fuentes-Moure, school office assistant at Austin Road Middle School, is the district’s 2025 Educational Support Person of the Year (ESPY).

Henry County Schools Superintendent Dr. John Pace III made the announcement during the district’s March 12 ESPY celebration at the McDonough Performing Arts Center.

Henry County Board of Education Vice Chair Makenzie McDaniel (Dist. 5), board member Dr. Pam Nutt (Dist. 1), HCS leaders and staff, and Georgia United Credit Union (GUCU) representative Melissa Gabriel joined the honorees’ families for the special celebration.

The annual ESPYs recognize exceptional educational support personnel in schools and district offices who go above and beyond to advance HCS’ vision to provide a high-quality, world-class education for its 42,000 students.

“You are the heartbeat of Henry County Schools,” Dr. Pace said. “I love starting my mornings in our schools before heading to the district office. Seeing your work in action doesn’t just start my day; it defines my why. I believe we aren’t just running a school district; we are architects of opportunity. Our goal is to ensure every student who walks through our doors finds their positive purpose in the world, and they cannot find their purpose if they don’t first feel safe, seen, and supported, and that is where you all come in.”

ESPYs represent job families, including administrative assistants, bookkeepers, bus drivers, clinic aides, custodians, data clerks, paraprofessionals, school nutrition personnel, and school safety monitors, who provide invaluable assistance and play a crucial role in the district’s overall success by championing operational success every day.

“I see a dream team that builds bright futures where all students can achieve their positive purpose,” Dr. Pace added. “You help our students see a world of possibilities that they may not have imagined for themselves and help them realize that they have something unique to offer the world. Thank you for being the steady hands and the big hearts that build bright futures across Henry County Schools.”

The district’s traditional and specialty schools and administrative offices nominate the best of the best of their educational support personnel for the ESPY award each year.

 

After a rigorous evaluation process spanning several months, the selection committee narrowed the field of 57 outstanding nominees, naming Fuentes-Moure, Phyllis Garden, and Chastidy Rivera as semifinalists last month.

Garden, an employee services specialist at the district office, was nominated for consistently exemplifying “five-star service” and team spirit in supporting the objectives of the Human Resource Services division.

Rivera, a media paraprofessional and social media lead at Luella High School, was nominated for transforming the school’s media center into an enriching and empowering environment and profoundly impacting students by fostering their academic and creative growth.

Fuentes-Moure’s vibrant personality, dedication to promoting a positive and uplifting school community, and genuine desire to see every student thrive were instrumental to her securing the title of 2025 district ESPY.

Fuentes-Moure, who also serves as Austin Road Middle School’s attendance clerk, is a passionate advocate for students and families. Her enthusiasm for creating welcoming and inclusive environments and ensuring all students feel a sense of belonging has helped to nurture a positive school culture where students feel valued and supported.

“I feel honored and blessed to be part of this wonderful school, where I work every day with passion and love,” she said. “The Henry County Board of Education blessed my life the moment I was hired in 2008, and I feel proud and grateful. This award is proof that I have worked hard to honor the opportunity you gave me.”

Fuentes-Moure also plays a vital role in Hispanic Heritage Month festivities, proudly sharing and celebrating her Puerto Rican heritage and incorporating cultural elements to enhance annual school and district celebrations.

“She is the heartbeat of our school and embodies what it means to win for kids,” said Principal Libra Brittian. “She is the first person on campus every day and gives of herself all day. Her unwavering commitment, compassion, and leadership make her not only deserving of this recognition but also a true treasure to Austin Road Middle School and Henry County Schools.”

“Congratulations to Mrs. Fuentes-Moure on her ESPY win,” McDaniel said. “Her clear passion to see Austin Road Middle School students thrive, and her focus on uplifting and helping the entire school community, reflect the spirit and intent of the ESPY award. We applaud her positive spirit and exemplary work ethic. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to the other honorees and all support staff across the district for what they do every day to help us achieve results for students.”

Premier sponsor GUCU presented Fuentes-Moure, Garden, and Rivera with monetary prizes. Buff City Soap, The Italian Oven, Nothing Bundt Cakes, O&P Solutions, Piedmont Henry, Publix Supermarkets, Snapping Shoals EMS, and Southern Belle Farm provided additional event support.