Teacher Assistant at Konnoak Elementary Wins NCAE Award

Beverly Miller, who is an EC (Exceptional Children) teacher assistant at Konnoak Elementary School, is the 2018 recipient of the Linda Rader Professional Opportunity Award, presented by the North Carolina Association of Educators.

Described as a lifelong learner, Miller is a member of the Forsyth County Association of Educators (FCAE), where she serves as the ESP Instructional Director. She also is her school’s building representative and is the secretary for the state’s Education Support Professionals Division of NCAE.

As an EC teacher assistant, Miller provides support to students with special needs by helping them develop skills to build their independence and well as complete day-to-day instruction. She also encourages students with positive feedback and works with them on ways to enhance their communications skills and advocate for themselves.

The Linda Rader Professional Opportunity Award is named for former NCAE President Linda Rader. Historically, she was instrumental in the merger of the predominately African-American North Carolina Teachers Association and the predominately white North Carolina Education Association, which came together to form NCAE in 1970.

Miller was presented with the award and a $1,500 cash prize by NCAE President Mark Jewell during the Association’s Summer Leadership Conference in Raleigh. It is her dream to pursue a degree in education.

NCAE is the state’s largest education advocacy organization for public school employees, and represents active, retired, and student members.