Julie Wharton, long-time CLC coordinator at Holmes High School and new mentoring coordinator, was recently awarded the Most Valuable Kids/MVK Staff Superstar award.
Nominated by colleague Kate Andriacco, Wharton was recognized with a flower arrangement, gift card, certificate, and many kudos.
Andriacco states, “A staunch advocate of the proverbial ‘underdog,’ Ms. Wharton works tirelessly to promote educational achievement among the youth of Covington.” Wharton continuously strives to ensure that “whole child” opportunities exist to ensure the overall health and success of the youth in Covington. She is dedicated to making sure that educational enrichment opportunities exist for all Holmes High School students outside of the school day and that “our students have personal advocates, particularly our most vulnerable student populations.”
Wharton’s outstanding leadership in addressing and raising awareness about issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion on campus is evidenced by her creation of student-led organizations at HHS focusing on such issues. She spearheaded the implementation and facilitation of numerous such clubs, including, but not limited to: Holmes High School’s first Unity Club, International Club, and the You Matter Club, which focuses on student LGBTQIA+ issues. Additionally, she serves as advisor of the Magnified Giving initiative, a student-led club aimed at community service, advocacy, and philanthropy.
“Under the tutelage of Ms. Wharton, student participants have learned to advocate for themselves and others, give back to their community, and most importantly, find their voice and assert their place in society through action. The students benefiting from Ms. Wharton’s programming are consistently learning responsibility, tolerance, and civic engagement,” Andriacco states.
Congratulations, Julie! Thank you for being a steadfast advocate for all youth, particularly those most vulnerable.