These unsung heroes are the first to greet students each morning and the last to see them off in the afternoon. Amid the demanding logistics, tight schedules, and high-stress nature of the job, one individual stands out as a beacon of motivation and care: Twanda Paul-Hines, Executive Assistant for LCS Transportation.

Twanda's role goes far beyond her job title. She is a daily source of encouragement and inspiration for the entire transportation team. With a deep understanding of the mental and physical stress the job entails, she consistently seeks new ways to uplift her colleagues—bringing a contagious energy and a strong passion for wellness into everything she does.

Having faced her own personal health challenges, Twanda recognizes the powerful link between physical activity and mental well-being. One of her standout initiatives this year was organizing a district-wide “Month of Marathons”—a step challenge that engaged staff from all bus compounds. Twanda went the extra mile to ensure inclusivity, securing odometers for staff who didn’t have access to fitness apps and even adapting the challenge for team members in wheelchairs. Throughout the month, she sent daily motivational messages and kept spirits high with weekly updates and prizes. By the end of the 30-day challenge, the transportation team had collectively walked the equivalent of seven full marathons.

“She has the best attitude of gratitude you can imagine an individual having, in spite of personal and family challenges,” said Frederick Johnson, her supervisor. “She always takes care of the family here at the Transportation Department with her kind words of encouragement and smiles. She is motivated to care for others as she continues to meet the needs of those less fortunate than herself.”

Twanda’s influence doesn’t stop with fitness. Over the past year, she has spearheaded numerous events that have brought the department and community closer together. After Hurricane Idalia, she led a “Stuff the Bus” initiative for Taylor County’s Transportation Department, collecting and delivering essential supplies. She also organized a “Bus-A-Treat” safety awareness event for students at three Title I schools and chaired both the retirement luncheon and holiday celebrations, helping to build a strong sense of community within the department.

For her unwavering dedication, positivity, and service, Leon County Schools is proud to congratulate Twanda Paul-Hines on being named the 2024–2025 Working Well Star Inspiration Award first place winner. She exemplifies what it means to lead with heart, and her impact is felt not only in the Transportation Department but across the entire district. 

Congratulations, Twanda! Thank you for inspiring us all to