SALISBURY — Each month, The Forum of Salisbury honors one classified and one licensed employee as “The Forum of Salisbury Employees of the Month” for the Rowan-Salisbury School System.

These staff members are nominated by students and parents, and the winners receive $250, a six-month membership to The Forum, and a 5-class pass for SoFul Yoga and Wellness at Railwalk.

Certified Staff Member of the Month:

Kayla Jones, kindergarten teacher at Rockwell Elementary is the September Forum of Salisbury Certified Staff Member of the Month.

The parent who nominated Ms. Jones wrote: “Ms. Jones has made the transition into “big” school so easy and welcoming for our kindergartener. She has encouraged them and lifted their spirits since the first day. As a parent, she has made me feel so much better about sending my little one off to school. She communicates what they are doing in class and sends picture updates to keep us in the loop of their day. They are talking about how to be a class family and friend etiquette. We can’t wait to see how much our girl learns from being in her class! We are so thankful to have such a great teacher to start off our school journey.”

Classified Staff Member of the Month:

Michael Leitch, aa bus driver for West Rowan Middle, Rowan County Early College and Salisbury High as well as being a school food service substitute for West Rowan Middle, is the September Forum of Salisbury Classified Staff Member of the Month

The parent who nominated Mr. Leitch wrote: “Mike is a bus driver for West Rowan Middle, Rowan County Early College, and Salisbury High 40 hours a week. He also works with Kelly Services as a permanent sub in the West Rowan Middle cafeteria. I have observed and worked alongside him. He is 110% about the students having positive experiences on the bus and during meals. His positive attitude, interest, and engagement with the students are so genuine. He is a great example of being a student advocate in RSS.”