Most Valuable Bear Award

The Division of Human Resources is excited to announce the implementation of the Burke County Public Schools Most Valuable Bear Award (MVB). This prestigious award provides all full-time and part-time employees (regardless of their position) the opportunity to nominate another full-time or part-time employee for doing extraordinary things. The award will allow the district to recognize, honor, and celebrate employees who have gone above and beyond their call of duty in their service to our students, schools, and district.

Nominations will be reviewed by a committee, and if selected, the employee will be highlighted and celebrated from the nomination(s). We encourage you to participate by taking a moment to reflect on the colleagues who make a meaningful impact in your school or department by submitting your nomination once the nomination window opens in December 2025. Highlights and recognitions will begin in 2026.

Because this award program launched mid-year, there will be two (2) nomination cycles for the 2025-2026 school year. Beginning the following school year, nominations will occur four (4) times annually.

For nominations to be honored, they must be submitted each time the nomination period is open. A person can submit only one nomination per open window. A link to make your nomination will be shared once the nomination window opens. 

Below are the guidelines:

• All nominations must be specific about the nominee and their exceptional contributions.
• All nominations must highlight key things or areas where the nominee went over and above their call of duty. We are looking for instances where the individual exceeded expectations, not routine responsibilities.
• All nominations must include example(s) that showcase how the nominee made a meaningful impact in their role and/or how they went above and beyond to be highlighted as a most valuable team mate, also known as Most Valuable Bear.
• Individuals may not nominate themselves.

How to Nominate:

Once the nomination window opens, a link will be provided for you to submit your nominations. We encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the colleagues who truly make a difference in your school or department and submit your nomination by the established deadline.