(Back row: Becky Buck, Principal Joseph Mastracci, Teacher of the Year Tara Amick. Front Row: Gavin Buck, Isadora Buck, and Brenna Amick)
Hurricane, WV - Lakeside Elementary School (Putnam County Schools) is proud to announce that Ms. Becky Buck has been named the 2026 Service Personnel of the Year, an honor made even more meaningful as she was selected by a ballot of her peers. Ms. Buck has been a dedicated member of the Lakeside community for the past ten years and previously earned this distinction in 2022. She has been with Putnam County for 19 years. Throughout her decade of service at Lakeside Elementary School, she has become known for her reliability, compassion, and willingness to step in wherever she is needed. Principal Joe Mastracci calls Ms. Buck "Lakeside's utility player" adding that she "can handle and excel in any situation." Ms. Buck currently serves as the Third Grade Early Childhood Assistant Teacher. Her role does not define her daily work. Grade 3 Lead Teacher Melissa Hayes praised her by saying, “Becky is the exact opposite of the phrase, ‘that’s not my job.’ If she sees a need, she immediately responds and completes every task with excellence” across the entire school. Her former lead teacher, Kristy Ord, echoed this sentiment, noting that Ms. Buck “meets every challenge with grace, builds genuine relationships with students and staff, and goes the extra mile without being asked.” School Secretary Melissa Black added that Ms. Buck “pours herself into her job and doesn’t ask for anything in return.” This year’s recognition reflects the deep appreciation and respect Ms. Buck has earned from the entire Lakeside community, and the school celebrates her continued commitment to making Lakeside Elementary School a vibrant community of safe, happy learners achieving excellence.