Deborah Yi Named the 2024-2025 FCS School Professional of the Year.
Deborah Yi Named the 2024-2025 FCS School Professional of the Year.
Deborah Yi, cafeteria manager at Lake Winward Elementary, was named the 2024-2025 Fulton County Schools (FCS) School Professional of the Year.
“Ms. Yi’s work ethic is exemplary,” said Lake Winward Principal Julie Morris. “Not only does she efficiently manage cafeteria operations, but she also takes the initiative to establish meaningful connections with students. Ms. Yi’s genuine interest in getting to know the students individually has created a sense of belonging and community within the cafeteria space.”
Beyond the cafeteria, Yi has excelled in helping enhance instruction.
“Ms. Yi blew away my students with her knowledgeable expertise as she enthusiastically led them on field trips focused on the objectives she and I discussed in advance,” said Lake Winward Talented and Gifted (TAG) teacher Terri Goldman. “For our 3rd grade Kitchen Chemistry unit, Ms. Yi showed the kids measuring techniques both for volume and temperature, kitchen tools, proper handwashing, and best practices for a safe kitchen. She supported our Mystery Powder Iron Chef baking contest and served as a respected judge.”
Providing an interactive experience for Lake Winward students, Yi gave 5th graders an engaging lesson demonstrating ways she and her staff maintain food safety.
“The students were so impressed with the sanitary practices and procedures Ms. Yi maintains and are grateful to her and her staff as protectors of health and cleanliness,” Goldman said.
In addition to providing instructional opportunities for students, Ms. Yi invests considerable time to decorating the cafeteria to align with various celebrations.
“Her creative decorations and thematic arrangements never fail to delight students and staff alike, adding a touch of joy and festivity to our school environment,” said Principal Morris.