The Bladen County Association of Educational Office Professionals recently held their annual luncheon to honor and recognize those who have made a difference in the educational lives of children. 

Rob Spainhour, principal of East Bladen High School, was chosen as the Administrator of the Year for 2008-2009 and Marietta Bethea, data entry specialist at the district office, was chosen as the Office Professional of the Year for 2008-2009.

The association is dedicated to the achievement of the professionalism of educational office personnel and to the improvement of the quality of service provided to students, educators and the community. Each year an AOY and an EOP are selected by members of the association for their outstanding service and dedication to the organization and to the local school system.

The recipient of the Administrator of the Year must, either currently or previously, have held an educational administrative position in Bladen County.

The recipient of the Educational Office Professional must, either currently or previously, be employed as an office person in the educational system of Bladen County.

Spainhour and Bethea thanked the association for their support of the educational system and for the support they have received from the association in striving for academic excellence.

Spainhour provided the following statement to the parents and students of East Bladen High School:

“Let me assure you that my goal is to provide a safe and academically challenging environment for every young person who attends East Bladen High School. My firm belief is that all children should be afforded the opportunity to learn at his or her highest level. You have sent us your very best gifts in your children. We appreciate your trust and support as we work with you to guarantee that each child is nurtured to a full, productive life in this community and as citizens of the USA.

The staff of East Bladen High School is committed to the growth and well-being of all students. As we continue to seek further opportunities for your participation in the daily life of East Bladen, we ask that you communicate your concerns and positive comments. We believe parent support makes the difference between an efficient school and an excellent one.” 

Bethea stated that “It is an honor and a pleasure to be nominated for this award by my peers at work. I was not expecting to be chosen as the recipient but am very appreciative to be the EOP of the Year.”

Both recipients will be submitted to the district level Educational Office Professionals Association for nomination of AOY and EOP of the year.

Membership is open to educational office personnel and administrators within the educational system, public and private, in Bladen County. No other educational association in this county and in the state makes itself so readily accessible to a single professional class of persons who cover the complete spectrum of education.