January 9, 2012

When it comes to finding a hero at Central Elementary School, students and staff alike agree that person is school secretary Doris Duncan.

“She never makes an enemy; she always has this calming, friendly voice that when you come in the door you just feel like you're home. But you're actually at your workplace,” said Lonnette Sisler, who teaches at the Fluvanna County school.

Duncan has been greeting students and staff with a smile every morning for more than 20 years.

“It feels very rewarding. it really does. It's all about the children. When they come in in the morning I try to smile. If they look like they're down, I give them an extra big smile and tell them to have a nice day. It's the same with staff,” said Duncan.

On top of getting everyone in a good mood, Duncan has many duties like calling in substitute teachers and finding items students leave behind on the bus.

“If somebody loses a lunch box or a water bottle or coat, she says on the intercom that somebody has lost whatever they might find on the playground,” said Kjuann Payne, a student at Central.

“When we have trouble she comes and helps us with things. She keeps everybody in order really good and she helps us so much with everything. That's why she's a big part of our school,” added Jordan Jones, another student.

Duncan is often completing many tasks at the same time, which staff and students say she is very good at.

“I am just so overwhelmed with her responsibilities. She deserves all the praise for keeping this school functioning. She holds us together, she's the glue,” said Sisler.

As busy as Duncan may be, she always finds time to try to make a difference for everyone she meets.