Sharonda Gardner was nominated by Karen Keith, a member of the community.
In her interactions with individuals through her role at ValuTeachers, Ms. Keith often encounters remarkable personalities. Two years ago, during one of her "Retire 101" workshops at J.W. Coon Elementary School, she met Ms. Gardner. When Ms. Keith stepped into the front office, Ms. Gardner's warm smile and welcoming demeanor radiated sunshine.
Reflecting on that encounter, Keith recalled, "Sharonda just exuded positivity and warmth right from the start."
Although Ms. Gardner officially serves as the school's data manager, her contributions extend beyond that role.
"It's not about what Sharonda does, but what she doesn't do," Keith remarked. "Every time I visit J.W. Coon, Sharonda is 'all hands on deck.'"
Despite facing personal hardships, including the loss of her mother and brother, as well as her own health challenges, Ms. Gardner remains the beacon of joy at J.W. Coon.
"She's the smile behind J.W. Coon and the welcoming 'Come on in' as the school buzzer rings you in," Keith described.
Ms. Gardner is a devoted mother of three, cares for her own family, and nurtures her school family with equal dedication. Tianna O'Brien, principal of J.W. Coon Elementary, had this to say about Ms. Gardner:
"Sharonda Gardner plays a pivotal role at J.W. Coon Elementary School. She wears many hats and does it all with a smile. Ms. Gardner is the school's receptionist, medication clerk, data manager, and Super Hero! She is the face that greets students and families with a smile. Ms. Gardner remains level-headed during times of difficulty. She is a tremendous help to the entire school community, and we are forever indebted to her for the support that she gives the school each day.
Ms. Gardner is an excellent employee. She provides support to students and knows each of their names. Ms. Gardner remembers the details that are so important when working with children. She works well with the staff and is a team player. Whenever she's asked to complete a task, Ms. Gardner does so with excellence. She completes things with an emphasis on servant leadership and in a way that also encourages others to put forth their best effort. She can bring out the best in everyone around her.
Ms. Gardner has dealt with some of the most severe situations during the past two years as she has worked in the front office. She has always maintained a smile and worked to ensure that the children and staff were safe and well taken care of. She is an actual school hero, and I am thankful to work with someone as dedicated to the success of all students as she is."
"Sharonda is beyond deserving of a Life Changer nomination. I want to bring the same smile to her face that she so effortlessly brings to everyone else's," said Keith.
From Kindergarten until now, I never received anything less than a welcoming heart. As an autistic mom being faced with the possibility issues in class, I don’t have the strength to deal with attitude in front office and Mrs Gardner NEVER had that attitude. It does not matter what time of the day you see or talk to her, you will not receive anything less than her beautiful smile. I can have my off days but before I leave the school my attitude is back in order. Mrs Gardner is that natural attitude check lady at JW Coon because all she has to do is smile at you and attitude is back being positive. All the training in the world cannot provide what Mrs Gardner has naturally. Mrs Gardner had made JW Coon as a doctor office for me because she takes that time to know each student and the class that they are in. She has given me that sense of security to where I do not need to worry about my son. I wish I can take her and others when he graduates in 2026 to middle school. I wish more more schools would take time to understand the importance of their position, especially in front office, because that’s where it starts not with the teachers. It’s the front office and JW COON FRONT OFFICE ROCKS!!! Mrs Gardner continue being that positive fairy by sprinkling your positivity dust upon others. Congratulations!!!
Well deserved, Ms. Gardner has such a loving and caring spirit.
My daughter Karen Via who nominated Sharonda has always spoke so highly of her. She lights up a room. If anyone deserves this award it’s Sharonda!
I love how Ms. Gardner always have a smile on her face and willing to help if needed.
She is truly a difference maker!! ??
Mrs. Gardner is such an awesome co-worker! She is approachable, extremely patient and she makes our "teacher lives" easier! I really appreciate her support at J. W. Coon!
Ms. Gardner deserves to win because she knows everything, she is very hospitable, very accommodating, and always goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone feels welcome and supported. Her dedication to excellence is evident in everything she does, as she approaches each task with genuine care, professionalism, and warmth. She possesses the ability to connect with people on a personal level, making everyone around her feel valued and appreciated. Ms. Gardner’s exceptional skills, unwavering commitment, and positive attitude truly set her apart, making her the most deserving candidate for this recognition.
Ms. Sharonda Gardner has always been helpful and approachable. She does her job with sincerity. She is a delightful person to work with.
She is patient and kind….
Ms. Gardner has made me feel so welcome here at JW Coon. Anything I need she will be able to give me or find. She brings light and laughter to any situation and makes grades seem like a breeze.
Ms Garner has helped every new students that come to our school feel comfortable and welcomed from the time they enter the door!
I sincerely echo the sentiments of everyone who’s commented. Ms. Gardner is a ray of sunshine to everyone she comes in contact with. Her infectious smile, contagious laugh, and beaming personality makes those days that seem unending, much better. There’s never been a time when I asked something of Ms. Gardner, that she didn’t do it and did it without hesitation. Her commitment to our school, the staff, and the students is worthy of recognition. Even through challenges she faced, she still had the same smile and dedication to her job and those she came in contact with. The world would be a better place, if there were more Ms. Gardners.
Sharonda is an awesome daughter, sister, mother, and friend. She is a selfless person who never hesitates to put others first. She's touched the lives of all who encounter her through her actions and support. She is definitely a Life Changer!
Sharonda is an amazing soul. She is always so positive. She was my child’s daycare teacher at a previous job and she exceeded expectations of what a daycare teacher is supposed to be. I’m forever greatful to know and have met this woman.
Ms. Gardner is a person who is there to help anyone! She extended her help with compassion, care, and the willingness to find a solution. She has always been a consistent person. I have seen and spoken with her many times and she has always greeted me with a smile and been so courteous to me. Ms. Gardner is family and school oriented. She takes pride in them both and it shows in her actions. I am so happy to have meet her and feel so comfortable around her. She is an amazing worker and friend.
My mommy is the best mommy. I love my Mommy. I love her very much. I hope she win.
My mommy is nice and smart and kind. She does good things for us and she helps us too. She buys stuff for us thank you mommy?I love you mommy! I hope you win.
Ms.Sharonda is an amazing woman. She has always been a pleasure to work with and know. She’s quick to give and is very helpful to her peers and community. I’ve seen how she is as a teacher (she was my two oldest kids daycare teacher) as a friend in my own personal encounters with her. She’s always smiling and bringing so much joy and light to this world.
Ms. Gardener has always been very helpful, patient, and accommodating. Her kindness always makes my day. She goes above and beyond for all of the children at J.W Coon and she is very much appreciated. Thank you Ms. Gardner!
I’ve known ms Gardner for 10 plus years and watch her as she move threw the daycare years and her journey now in the elementary school setting and how she deals with the kids u can’t ask for a better nominee she has perfect energy very humble and from what I’ve seen very passionate about her job she’s the best mother and I think she definitely meets all the requirements for this award
Ms. Gardner is not only a breath of fresh air to the staff at J W Coon Elementary but also an exemplary colleague who goes above and beyond her call of duty to serve our teachers, students and school family. She always wears a beautiful smile that makes you feel so welcomed and at home to whomever she meets. It is a pleasure to work with such an awesome human being.
Miss Garner is a very intelligent delightful beautiful person I have had the honor of knowing her for about 5 years and she's been the same way ever since I sometimes think that she has more than two arms because I've seen her work ethics and she works in every area that you put her in with excellence what an excellent choice you have made
Ms. Gardner is so good to the people in her life, she is so considerate and caring. When she gives it is easy to see that it comes straight from the heart… and it gives everyone around her the gift of a nicer world to live in. I truly treasure just being in this world with her. She is such a deserving person. I pray that all of her days are as beautiful and as bright as the ones you inspire in all of our lives. Thank you for being my friend ??.
An amazing mother and coworker. Her smile is one that can brighten and calm your day. She is patient, humble, and her strength is beyond measure. I am glad to be in her presence her over the years and called her friend.
Sharonda is an amazing person inside and outside. My time working with her was a joy. She was always willing to give a helping hand with a smile on her face. She is just a phenomenal person and I am blessed to call her my friend.
Sharonda is absolutely amazing! As the School Social Worker I work very closely with her and I can not give her enough praises. Her knowledge and efficiency make my job much easier. She is the most organized, detail oriented, dedicated, co worker and is always willing to help anyone that asks. There is not a task to small or large that she will not help with and does so with a smile. Her kind caring heart makes her shine always with all of the students, staff and parents she comes in contact with. Sharonda has faced a lot of hardship including medical issues of her own, but it never stops her dedication or her drive to help everyone! We are so incredibly lucky to have her as a co-worker and friend. If ever there was a deserving person for this award it is without a doubt Sharonda!
Ms Gardner is a joy to work with. She always has a smile on her face and is ready to help in any way that she can!
Great person/Coach/teacher/parent! Ms. Gardner is deserving of so much good and great. She has been a vital in helping build programs that support youth and can be called on in any situation. Ms Gardner is there when ever she is needed. I'm greatfull to have met and been able to work with her. Grade A person need more like her for sure!!
I had the pleasure of meeting Sharonda about three years ago, and after talking with her and seeing the smile on her face, I felt like I met an angel that day. Sharonda has been through a lot this past year but she never let her issues blockout the love that she has for her job at an elementary school. Sharonda is well deserving of this award because of the hard work and dedication she puts in at her job and also at home with her kids. Sharonda is a true angel to everyone she meets.
There is not one person that doesn’t LOVE Ms. Gardner! She is everything….knowledgeable, professional, willing to help and humble. All of this plus a SMILE! No matter what is going on, Ms Gardner never or rarely complains. She is truly a light to the workplace. I love being in her company and she is missed whenever she’s not around.
Ms. Gardner has a remarkable ability to have an infectious smile on her face even when she is going through difficult times. Everyone lucky enough to know Ms. Gradner has been greatly affected by her contagious cheerfulness. Even though Ms. Gardner has faced adversity throughout her life, her sunny disposition never goes away. It's a sincere reflection of her strength within and resiliency. She chooses to approach challenges with optimism and compassion rather than letting them bring her down. Ms. Gardner radiates a welcoming attitude to everyone she encounters at the school, and her smile serves as an expression of a sense of optimism. Her friends and loved ones find solace in her presence, knowing that her unwavering positivity can light up even the darkest of days.
Ms. Gardner's resilience serves as an inspiration to others. She doesn't let setbacks define her; instead, she uses them as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Through her own experiences, she has learned the power of perspective and the importance of finding joy in the little things. Even when faced with adversity, Ms. Gardner chooses to focus on the blessings in her life. She finds joy in simple pleasures, cherishes moments of laughter, and embraces the beauty of each new day. Her optimism is contagious, creating an atmosphere of happiness wherever she goes. Her ability to maintain a smile amidst difficulty is a testament to her inner strength and unwavering spirit. She reminds us all that even in our darkest moments, there is still light to be found. Ms. Gardner’s presence is a gift to those around her, a reminder to keep smiling and never lose hope, no matter what challenges life may bring. I’m so blessed to know my friend Ms.Sharonda Gardner
Sharonda is such a blessing! I am honored to know her and everyone who has met her would say the same!
Mrs. Gardner has many life roles of which she embodies dearly. There are never any negative encounters with Mrs. Gardner. She is a role model for peace and love she shares constantly. The passionate characteristics she has in everything she does, will always be visual. Her smile and loving welcome when you meet her will give you joy. Her character is the definition of love, happiness, and care at a minimum. She strives for quality in everything she does and has never given up on anyone or anything. Mrs. Gardner has earned the Life Changer of the Year nominee because she is truly a phenomenal person of which she displays daily.
I have known and worked with Sharonda for several years and have always found her dependable, efficient, and unfailingly punctual. In fact, I have never worked with a person who gives as much attention to detail as she does. Sharonda is beyond deserving of a Life Changer domination.
Ms. Gardner exudes an exceptional person inside and out. She never hesitates to give a helping hand and always puts others before herself. Her selflessness in the community within helping her recreation teams as well as family, schools, daycare, and anywhere she has ever worked or helped has always been their needs and priorities first! She always gets the job done and makes sure it’s done right in an effective and efficient manner! I couldn’t be more proud to know her and speak this highly of anyone but her, because she perseveres despite her struggles and hardships each and every day. She is a resilient woman and deserves so much more praise than this! She’s outstanding!
Sharonda, exceeds positive words of encouragement, kindness with always a warm welcome. She will aways wear a warm smile with a good morning.
She wears many hats while working at JW Coon Elementary School, serving as our
Data Manager. Sharonda will give a hand to help others when needed. She is hard working, dedicated and gets the job done.
I am prud to call her my friend.
Janice
Ms. Gardner is a loyal, hardworking, caring young lady. She will go out of her way for anybody. She is the kind of person you want around you all the time. She is the kind of person who rise above odds with no complaints. She is truly a jewel and gift from God.
Ms. Gardner is one of the kindest, hard working people I know. I remember when she arrived to J.W Coon, she instantly came in with willing to learn and embrace all experiences. The students love her and she mothers them like she would her own. Not only is she committed to her job but also her family. She is a mother to 3 children and it is apparent how much she loves and adores them. Ms. Gardner is a jewel and I'm blessed to know her and work with her!
I found Sharonda to be a very loving, caring, and responsible young lady. I love this young lady.
Ms. Gardner is always such a joy to be around. She is eager and willing to do anything she can, to help in whatever way she possibly can. She always has a positive attitude and cares very much for others. She goes above and beyond the call of duty. Ms. Gardner is so deserving of a Life Changer nomination!
Sharonda is a very kind and generous person. She gets along very well with others. She’s dedicated to whatever job she does. I have always enjoyed working with Sharonda and she’s so patient with children.
I met sharonda years ago and she always has been a beautiful kind woman to me. She is an amazing mother, friend, sister, and aunt. She is truly a genuine woman who cares about people and the community! She is a great asset to to the team she works with
I've known sharonda for along time. Had the pleasure xof working with her. She's a wonderful mother and a very hard worker..Much Love
I'm a behavior specialist for the county. I go to several different schools throughout the week. Some days are much longer than others. Every school doesn't have a shining light to greet you at the door. Pressing that button at J.W. Coon is a totally different experience. The voice that greets you and tells you to come inside is a voice that instantly puts a smile on your face.
Ms. Gardner is full of warmth and positivity, and her smile radiates even on the dullest of days. Despite the challenges that may weigh her down, she greets everyone with a genuine smile, a gesture that effortlessly uplifts spirits and lightens the atmosphere.
Her smile is like a sunbeam, illuminating every interaction with its infectious cheerfulness. It's a silent reassurance that no matter what struggles one may face, there is always a reason to find joy in the present moment. After getting to know Ms. Gardner and hearing about all her struggles, its hard to understand why she is smiling.
What's truly remarkable about her is that her smile isn't just a façade; it's a reflection of her inner strength and resilience. Even when she's not feeling her best, battling through the throes of illness or fatigue, she chooses to adorn her face with that same bright smile, refusing to let negativity cloud her disposition.
She embodies the spirit of perseverance, facing each day with unwavering optimism and a determination to spread happiness to those around her. Her genuine kindness and positivity create a ripple effect, inspiring others to approach their own challenges with a similar sense of grace and optimism.
In a world where negativity can often overshadow the beauty of everyday moments, she serves as a reminder that a simple smile has the power to brighten even the darkest of days. She is a beacon of light for J. W. Coon, a wonderful woman whose smile illuminates everyone's lives and reminds us of the magic that exists in small acts of kindness.
Ms. Gardner is an outstanding woman, mother, and friend. It's such a Blessing to know such a wonderful woman.
I had the pleasure with working with Ms. Gardner. She never hesitates with helping out anyway she can. I witnessed many days when she was sick or was dealing with things in her personal life but she pressed on in despite of what she way going through. She recognizes that her role is vital to the students being successful and she always but them first. She ensures to do her part to ensuring that all students are in a safe and nurturing learning environment. She gives so much and asks for nothing in return, which makes her well deserving to be nominated as a Life Changer recipient.
I am so honored to be able to support Ms. Gardner as LifeChanger of the Year nominee. I have worked alongside Ms. Gardner since 2020. Every time I encounter her, she has an infectious smile on her face. She is always willing to offer a helping hand. She displays empathy and compassion at all times. Ms. Gardner exudes an optimistic approach even in challenging situations. She is so deserving of this recognition!
Ms. Gardner works hard each day with a smile on her face making the kids her first priority. You can tell she loves what she does.
Sharonda will leave a footprint on your heart. She is the most incredible person I have ever met. She always has a smile, knowledgeable,intelligent,caring, and nurturing . She is attentive to everyone’s questions and concerns. She also has so much patience and listens and pay attention to details. She is an awesome person!
Ms. Gardner truly embodies the qualities of a life changer and is deserving of recognition for her contributions. Her dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to operational procedures are undoubtedly invaluable qualities in any organization. She goes above and beyond to support students and maintain effective communication with all stakeholders. Her willingness to tackle challenges with a smile is truly commendable and sets a fantastic example for her colleagues. Recognition for her outstanding contributions is well-deserved. It's inspiring to hear about individuals like Ms. Gardner who make such a positive impact in their workplace.
Despite managing numerous responsibilities as a mother and battling health challenges, she consistently approaches every task with equal commitment. Her involvement as a coach for a travel basketball team and her unwavering support for her daughter's dreams demonstrate her selflessness and dedication to others. Despite her health struggles, she remains determined to further her education and continue serving the needs of students and teachers. Ms. Gardner's perseverance, compassion, and willingness to prioritize the well-being of others make her exceptionally deserving of recognition and appreciation. Ms. Gardner's dedication and positive attitude make her a valuable asset to the front office team and J. W. Coon.
Sharonda Gardner has been an inspiration to so many. Her kindness and willingness to help anyone in need sometimes goes unnoticed. Her smile lightens up any room and she is deserving of a Life Changer nomination.
