IRMO – Lexington-Richland School District Five has announced the finalists for its 2025–2026 Support Employee of the Year award: Shamone Chandler, a kindergarten assistant at Dutch Fork Elementary; Bridgette Gause, a cafeteria assistant manager at Ballentine Elementary; and Cami Ruppe, an instructional and clerical assistant at Oak Pointe Elementary.
Chandler, who joined District Five two years ago, has also served as a counselor for the Kit Klub at Dutch Fork Elementary. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. Reflecting on her own challenging upbringing, Chandler credits the compassion and kindness of school support staff with inspiring her to make a difference in students’ lives today. “They showed me that aspiring to inspire is not just a catchphrase—it’s a call to action,” Chandler said.
Gause has worked at Ballentine Elementary for seven years and has served with the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) for 17 years. She emphasized the important role cafeteria staff play in students’ lives, often being the first to notice when a child is struggling. “Our role is about more than just food—it’s about being a steady presence in the lives of these kids,” Gause said.
Ruppe, a former certified personal trainer and swim instructor, has worked at Oak Pointe Elementary for five years after previously serving as a substitute teacher. She spoke about the power of building strong relationships within the school community. “The true essence of my work lies in the moments where I truly see a child, our eyes meet, and I engage with them in whatever way the situation requires,” Ruppe said. “These are the moments that matter most.”
In addition to the district-wide finalists, School District Five recognized Support Employee of the Year winners from each of its schools, including Sonia Davenport (Academy For Success), Manisha Kanitkar (Adult Education), Willie McIntee (Center for Advanced Technical Studies), and many others.
Superintendent Akil E. Ross, Sr. praised the honorees, stating, “Congratulations to our Support Employee of the Year finalists and those who were selected by their peers to represent their school in our district! These individuals are an important part of School District Five’s mission to ‘love and grow our students.’ Thank you for helping our district and students thrive each and every day.”
