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Carol Newkirk with Dr. Thomas Nichols, Wallace-Rose Hill High Principal
In 2021, our House of Raeford Farms FLOCK team in Duplin County, North Carolina kicked off “FLOCK Cares”, a program designed to honor those who serve, often without any recognition. These individuals are dedicated to serving their fellow citizens without regard to age, gender, race, economic background, or any of those areas that often divide us.
As we closed out 2024, FLOCK honored Ms. Carol Newkirk, Head Custodian at Wallace-Rose Hill High School, with recognition of her service and a gift certificate to a local grocery store. Ms. Newkirk works tirelessly to ensure that the school is always clean, safe, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors alike. We pay tribute to her extraordinary dedication, selflessness, and compassion toward others in every aspect of her life.
“Her commitment to excellence is unmatched, as she continually goes above and beyond, responding to late-night emergencies, addressing unexpected challenges, and offering a helping hand whenever it’s needed,” said Gary Brown, Assistant Principal. “Her reliability, work ethic, and kind spirit are at the core of our school community, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her.”
In addition to her tireless work at school, Ms. Newkirk carries an immense responsibility at home, serving as the primary caregiver to her mother. She devotes herself to her mother’s daily care with compassion, patience, and unwavering love. From managing medical appointments and medications to ensuring her mother’s emotional well-being, Ms. Newkirk manages every challenge with grace and humility. She is an inspiration to those around her, proving that love and resilience can prevail even in the most difficult circumstances.
What is truly remarkable is how Ms. Newkirk faces these challenges while maintaining a joyful spirit. Every morning, and often throughout the day, she carries a song in her heart, humming or singing as she cleans and fulfills her responsibilities. Her positive attitude uplifts those around her, creating an atmosphere of warmth and encouragement wherever she goes.
Tom Teachey (R) Presents Gift Certificate to Ms. Carol Newkirk
“Ms. Newkirk’s devotion to her family, Wallace- Rose Hill and its students, and the community exemplifies the mission of FLOCK,” shared Tom Teachey, House of Raeford’s Director of Community Outreach for the Duplin County area. “We celebrate her selflessness and kindness as our latest FLOCK Cares recipient.”
Started as an outreach to local schools near our West Columbia, South Carolina location, the program has since expanded to Greenville, SC and is expected to be unveiled at other House of Raeford sites in the future.