GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR WCPS! Each month, out of the 2,600+ Wicomico County Public Schools employees, we recognize three employees for going way "above and beyond" their normal duties and are given Extra Mile Awards. We choose one employee from each of our divisions: Academics, Business and Operations, and Student & Family Services.
Congratulations to January 2026's Extra Mile Award Recipients!
-CRIS BRYSON, Accounting Manager in Finance Ms. Bryson is recognized for her willingness to help colleagues and fosters a positive and collaborative work environment in her department. Whether it’s offering guidance or stepping in during challenging situations including staying 9 p.m. recently to help resolve payroll issues, demonstrating her dedication to both her job and her colleagues. Cris supervises a staff of 14 and manages daily accounting operations. Her leadership and attention to detail are essential to the success of the department.
-KNITA CARTWRIGHT, McKinney-Vento Coordinator Since becoming our school system’s McKinney-Vento Coordinator, Ms. Cartwright has taken a leading role supporting families experiencing homelessness. She was instrumental in the Community Schools Rental Assistance Program with Habitat for Humanity by helping identify families eligible for support with security deposits, rental arrears, and utilities. She has also helped to secure funding for more food options for families in need and coordinated with Soles4Souls organization to provide more than 100 pairs of shoes to Wicomico Public Schools students. She is known for her warmth, positivity, and a smile around the office.
-DEAN HOLLAND, Instructional Assistant at Chipman Elementary School Although Mr. Holland is assigned to Early Learning Transitions, his support extends beyond his designated role, and he supports both Chipman Elementary and Fruitland Intermediate schools. Dean works closely with teachers to support students with challenging behaviors, creating effective behavior charts and engaging activities that students enjoy. He is especially skilled at de-escalating difficult situations through his calm presence, understanding nature, and sense of humor. He also serves as a mentor and leader in a gentlemen’s afterschool club and quietly used his own money to provide students in need with essentials such as socks and gloves and ensured that children in his after-school club each receive a Christmas gift.
If you happen to see either of these three outstanding employees, please tell them "Thank You" for going the Extra Mile for Wicomico County Public Schools.