Selecia Hammond has driven a school bus for Brookhaven School District for 25 years.

“When I see Bus 218, I know it’s Miss Hammond even if I don’t see the number, because of her smile, even with the mask on,” said Superintendent Rod Henderson at the school board’s recent regular meeting.

Henderson recognized Hammond Tuesday night as the first of the district’s “unsung heroes” to be publicly appreciated at board meetings.

“We lose focus on what’s important sometimes, like people who do what needs to be done within the district to help students,” he said. “Miss Hammond goes above and beyond to help keep our students safe.”

Presenting her with a framed certificate of appreciation, Henderson told Hammond that the recognition was a thank you from the district but also a personal thank you from him for all of her consistent dedication.

“We appreciate her and all of our bus drivers,” Henderson told the board, “because they get our kids to school safely and they get them home safely.”

“We appreciate you so much,” Henderson said as board members and attendees applauded.