Video: Lee County Names First ‘Rooker Award’ Winner

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TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) — A Lee County middle school teacher is the first recipient of an award named after a beloved educator who passed away this summer. Seventh grade teacher Janet Carroll was named the first winner of the “Jennifer Rooker Memorial Grant” during the regular meeting of the Lee County School Board.

Rooker was a special education teacher at Mooreville Elementary when she passed away in June after a battle with breast cancer. The award was established to honor teachers who exemplify Rooker’s commitment to students.

Carroll says she cares about all her students.

“My job does not end when I leave school,” said Carroll. “I am always thinking about my kids and how can I do a better job, and specifically do they need me in a certain way that maybe not be the first thing I go to, but I always say you never know what a child comes to school from and what they get off the bus to, so I try and keep that in mind.”

Carroll was also given $500. The money is awarded by “EXPECT,” an organization that recognizes teachers in the Lee County School District.