Above, from left: Cedar Ridge Superintendent Roger Ried, Cedar Ridge Transportation Director/Employee of the Year Annette Ward, Federal Programs Coordinator Paula Lovell
Cedar Ridge School District has named Annette Ward, its longtime transportation director, the 2025 Employee of the Year.
Ward, who has worked for the district for 35 years, was recognized for her dedication to ensuring the safety of students and staff. She oversees daily transportation operations, including assessing road conditions during inclement weather and preparing buses each morning.
“She takes her job to heart,” one colleague who nominated Ward said. “She is out driving roads during winter storms to make sure that the roads are clear before we come back to school. She almost never takes a day off because she truly loves her job and wants to do her best. She is at the school before the other drivers to make sure the buses are ready to hit the road, and when she has a bus or vehicle out, she makes sure she is always available for any need that may arise. She cares about each student, teacher, and staff member in this district and wants to help them in any way she can. She is the best.”
Colleagues also praised Ward for her deep knowledge of students and routes, as well as her commitment to supporting both students and drivers.
“You will never find another person who truly loves the kids and the importance of school more than Annette Ward,” another colleague said. “She knows every house and where every kid goes. She knows all of the kids. She blesses not only the kids but also her bus drivers. She keeps them fueled, warms the buses on the cold mornings, and makes sure they are taken care of. She will do whatever she can for Cedar Ridge and, while she thinks it’s just doing her job, it’s way more than that. She is a tremendous blessing and deserves employee of the century.”
The award was sponsored by Merchants and Planters Bank.
Image provided by the Cedar Ridge School District
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