Joel Stewart | Award of Excellence

Joel Stewart | Award of Excellence

Jermaine Buford

Jermaine Buford arrived at The Westview School in 2021 alongside new Westview Middle School student, Will. Jermaine was employed as Will's caregiver, and he had been working with Will and his family for several years during Will's educational journey.

After a year of being a daily presence on Westview's campus, Jermaine applied for an instructional assistant position. He was a perfect fit for the role.

"Observing in year one, I really learned how to work with [Westview] students," said Jermaine. He complimented the teachers and administrators for being such great supporters. "Mrs. Irvin, Katie Hazeldine, and Dr. Casper-Teague have been my biggest supporters," said Jermaine. "I can't thank them enough."

This year, Jermaine has gone above and beyond what is expected in his role to support students, and he will leave a lasting impact on Westview. Colleagues praised Jermaine and his dedication to our students. "He is always thinking about ways to motivate our students. He is creative and our students love him."

Jermaine is behind the design and implementation of the Middle School House System. He also took on several Life Fun projects that gave Westview students rich, authentic, real-life experiences with job interviews. He has supported our students by performing his regular job duties and providing extra tutoring, one-on-one reteaching, and mentoring.

Jermaine will be greatly missed at Westview. With great appreciation and gratitude, we are overjoyed to name Jermaine as this year's recipient of the Joel Stewart Award of Excellence. The Joel Stewart Award of Excellence is awarded each year to the instructional assistant who exemplifies commitment, care, loyalty, and helpfulness and has a strong work ethic and initiative in supporting teachers and students in ways that go above and beyond.