Debra Robbins, front office receptionist at Four Oaks Middle, has been recognized as the February Classified Employee of the Month by Johnston County Schools.
Robbins supports students, staff, and families at Four Oaks Middle. She takes pride in her role and values helping the school operate efficiently while maintaining a welcoming environment for all who enter the front office. Robbins said it is meaningful to work in the same school system where she grew up and to give back to her community.
Outside of work, Robbins spends time with family, cares for animals, and enjoys homesteading.
When asked about receiving this recognition, Robbins stated: “Being named Classified Employee of the Month is a wonderful surprise! I feel very grateful to be recognized for the work I do at my school. This recognition encourages me to continue doing my best every day for my Four Oaks Middle Cardinals.”
Robbins began her career in Johnston County Public Schools as a life skills teacher assistant before moving into other roles. She explained: “Originally, I started working for the school system as a life skills teacher assistant, which turned out to be an amazing opportunity. From there, I was moved to the in-school suspension classroom. While I was told I was good at it, I just never felt like it was my calling. So, when the front office position became available, I jumped at the opportunity.”
Reflecting on her professional growth, Robbins said: “Working in this role has taught me the importance of communication, patience, and building strong relationships within a school community. I have gained valuable experience in supporting daily operations while also being a trusted resource for students, families, and staff.”
“After receiving this recognition, I hope to continue growing by learning new ways to better serve my school,” she added.
Robbins described her approach to supporting students: “I strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere by greeting students with kindness and treating every situation with care and understanding. I want students to feel comfortable coming to the office when they need help, reassurance, or encouragement.”
“By being consistent, patient, and positive, I help students feel safe and supported throughout their school day,” she continued.
On building relationships with students and staff members Robbins said: “Strong relationships are important because it builds trust. I build relationships by being approachable, listening carefully, and supporting others whenever I can. Whether I am helping a student in need or assisting staff, I believe kindness and respect can go a long way.”
Recalling a significant moment from her earlier work as a life skills teacher assistant Robbins shared: “While I was working in the life skills classroom, we often gave students the opportunity to sell cups of coffee to teachers each day as a way to practice responsibility and workplace skills. During my second year, we had a class that was all boys and they weren’t interested in selling coffee. They wanted to focus on learning how to be responsible young men.
Throughout the year, they learned how to safely use power tools, research blueprints, and follow building plans to create furniture and other projects. At the end of the year, they auctioned off what they had built, and the money raised was used to support and fund our classroom.
That experience was especially meaningful because it showed me how powerful it can be when students are given the chance to learn through hands-on work and take pride in what they accomplished. This taught me patience and how to support my students in the different ways they learn.”
Johnston County Schools serves over 37,000 pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade students across its district based in Smithfield (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/). The district fosters cultural diversity with more than 45 languages represented among its student body (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), operates state-of-the-art facilities supported by community engagement (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), offers programs spanning academics as well as arts and athletics (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), provides services such as transportation and nutrition programs (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), is one of Johnston County’s largest employers (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), embraces diversity initiatives (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), prioritizes student success (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/), empowers students for global citizenship (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/) ,and serves communities throughout Johnston County in North Carolina (https://www.johnston.k12.nc.us/).
