Rotarians learn about United Way of North Central Mississippi

Established in 1979, the United Way of North Central Mississippi is one of more than 1,400 organizations across America that seeks to promote positive change in its communities.

United Way NCMS Executive Director Brittney Oliver explained to the Starkville Rotary Club on Monday on just how the organization serves people in Oktibbeha, Choctaw, Webster and Winston counties.

Before Oliver spoke to the Rotarians, this month’s Teacher of the Month was recognized.

Kathryn Knippers Griffith is a 2nd grade teacher at West Oktibbeha County Elementary School who comes from a family of educators, and she expressed her gratitude towards several parties for the Teacher of the Month honor.

“I’m so honored to represent the Starkville School District and the amazing school of West Elementary,” said Griffith. “I want to thank the administrators and Mrs. [Gabrielle] Mills, who is such a great leader and so encouraging, especially during the times that we’ve had.”

Griffith added she could not talk about all of the amazing parts about West Elementary without mentioning her hard-working students, two of which were present at the Rotary program on Monday.

“First, we have Livie Faver; Livie is always such a bright and encouraging light in the classroom. She is caring, extremely talented, and she always shows growth on her assessments and her personal goals that she sets,” said Griffith. “Then, I have the wonderful Kaiden Frazier who is a leader in the classroom and always models respect. He makes sure that no one is