Cory Steffes, School Counselor for Woodland School and Short Mountain School was named as “Employee of the Month” for February 2019 by Cannon County Schools. During the February Meeting of the Cannon County Board of Education on Thursday, February 14th, 2019, Steffes was recognized and presented a certificate by Cannon County Schools Director William F. Curtis for his service to his schools and the Cannon County School System. Employees are nominated by School Principals or School District Supervisors and are voted on during monthly Principal and Supervisor meetings regarding individuals who exemplify the Mission and Vision of Cannon County Schools.
Woodland School Principal Mrs. Angela Cossey nominated “Mr. Cory” for this honor and stated regarding this outstanding educator: “We are thankful for our school counselor, Mr. Cory Steffes. We appreciate his daily dedication and support. Mr. Steffes selflessly serves Woodland School students, parents, and staff. He epitomizes what it means to be a Warrior! On Thursday, January 10, he stepped in without hesitation to help rescue one of our Woodland families when there was an automobile accident in front of our school. A hero is someone who is able to push through when things seem impossible, when everything is chaotic and when everything is falling apart. They do it because they care about the people involved. Mr. Steffes was able to remain calm and provide care until responders arrived and provide responders with critical information. His heroic efforts and responsible actions are to be commended, and his actions signify what an outstanding member of our school community he is.”
Short Mountain School Principal Mr. Robert Pitts also stated regarding his employee, “Our guidance counselor, Mr. Corey Steffes, is such a great asset to Short Mountain School. He is loved, admired, and respected by all. Students are drawn to him like a magnet because he has such a wonderful relationship with them. They know they can confide in him and trust that he will do his best to help them with whatever situation they have on their minds. He has such a warm, caring attitude toward the students. Mr. Corey is a counselor and teacher. He goes into the classrooms and presents lessons that are so appropriate and needed in the lives of students. He builds character; he teaches students how to work with each other and care for one another. Mr. Corey is our 504 coordinator. He serves as a link between parents whose children may have special needs and may require special services with our staff. He brings them together to discuss and formulate a plan that’s best for the child. He also serves as a link between the eighth grade students and the high school. He advises the eighth grade on a proper course of study as they prepare to enter high school. Our school would be at a great disadvantage without the expertise of Mr. Corey.”
Director of Cannon County Schools, Mr. William F. Curtis stated, “Mr. Cory Steffes is the consummate School Counselor. His demeanor and enthusiasm for every student in his care is demonstrated every day with his students.” Mrs. Bonnie Patterson, Coordinator of School Health is Mr. Steffes supervisor, she stated the following, “Mr. Cory is truly a top notch teacher and counselor. He cares so much about the kids and our schools, and students are so lucky to have him! He would not want to be recognized or praised, but I know he deserves it!”
Director Curtis stated further, “I believe Mr. Steffes personifies our Mission of Cannon County Schools of ‘Preparing All Students for their Future’ by most assuredly being ‘The New E3 – Engaged in Excellence Every Day.’ Congratulations to Mr. Cory for being an impactful ‘Team Player’ in our Cannon County Schools family for all Cannon County Students.”