Blow To Represent North Carolina As National RISE Award Nominee

Cedric Blow, who serves as Pitt County Schools Custodial Services Supervisor, has been selected by Governor Roy Cooper as one of two North Carolina nominees for the 2024 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award.

The award, passed by Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, honors classified school employees who provide exemplary service. In addition to recognition at the statewide level, Blow and the other nominee - Beryl Torrence with Kannapolis City Schools - are now candidates for the national RISE Award.

"Classified school employees are the unsung heroes of our education system, ensuring our schools run smoothly and our students have the support they need to succeed," Cooper said. "Cedric Blow and Beryl Torrence exemplify the dedication, leadership, and community spirit that make a lasting difference in our schools. Their contributions inspire us all, and I’m proud to see their hard work and commitment recognized at the national level."

Blow, who was promoted to his current position in December of 2018, was described by Facility Services leadership as someone who embodies excellence and dedication. Starting as an entry-level custodian at Farmville Middle School in 2011 before earning later appointments as head custodian at North Pitt High School and Sugg-Bundy Elementary, his exceptional work ethic and leadership propelled him to oversee custodial operations across 36 schools, managing a team of 175 individuals with integrity and consistency.

Known for elevating standards, training colleagues and stepping up in crises, Blow has become a trusted mentor and community leader according to PCS Assistant Director of Facility Services Operations Mike Whitford. A multiple "Custodian of the Year" award recipient, Whitford also added that Blow's commitment extends beyond his professional role as he volunteers as a youth coach and mentor, shaping young athletes and fostering strong community connections.

For the purposes of the RISE Award, a classified school employee is defined as an individual employed by a state, political subdivision, or nonprofit entity who works in any grade from pre-kindergarten through high school in one of the following areas: paraprofessional support, clerical and administrative services, transportation, food and nutrition services, custodial and maintenance operations, security, health and student services, technical support, or skilled trades.

This year’s nominees demonstrated exceptional work performance, significant school and community engagement, and outstanding leadership and dedication. Their colleagues, school and district leaders, and community members praised their exemplary contributions, highlighting how both individuals elevate the role of classified school employees within their schools and communities.

The Office of the Governor received nearly 50 nominations from a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals, local education agencies, school administrators, professional associations, labor organizations, nonprofit groups, private schools, parents, and students.

Blow and Torrence have been nominated to the U.S. Department of Education for national recognition. The Secretary of Education will select one classified school employee from the nominees across the country to receive the RISE Award in the spring. The honoree will be celebrated by the U.S. Department of Education, and their story will be shared nationwide to inspire excellence among classified school employees.

Torrence is assistant director of operations for transportation at Kannapolis City Schools.