PHOTO BY MARY CANNADAY


Helen Manear, (wearing red shirt) lead custodian at Bartow Elementary Academy, was surprised with a reception in her honor, having been named a county finalist, school-related employee of the year Tuesday. She and six other finalists received cash awards and prizes from sponsors of the county-wide contest. Here, BEA principal April Campbell presents Manear with a gift from the staff. "She is a treasure," Campbell said. "She loves the kids and the school."