VALDOSTA — Mercedes Walker, receptionist at Pine Grove Middle School, received the One Lowndes Spotlight Award Tuesday night at the Lowndes Board of Education meeting.

The Spotlight Award highlights those in the school system working behind the scenes to make the school safe and building a positive culture in the school system.

“[Walker] is an invaluable member of the middle school team, excelling in her role where she is often the first person people encounter—greeting people with professionalism, warmth, and a contagious positive attitude,” said Dr. Kevin Maxwell, principal of PGM. “There is no one better to serve in their role of director of first impressions at Pine Grove Middle School.”

Walker was praised by her colleague Dr. Tenry Barry, director of teacher and leader quality for Lowndes County Schools, for going above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.

“They’re like my own babies,” Walker said when she was thanked for looking out and supporting PGM students.