This week, we are honored to celebrate Becky Maddox, Administrative Assistant to the Curriculum and Instruction Department at Lee County Schools Central Office, as she prepares to retire this Friday after an incredible 38 years of service. She has worked at East Lee, Lee Senior, Southern Lee, and had two stints at Central Office that spanned 23 of those years.
Over nearly four decades, Becky has worn many hats - substitute teacher, secretary to assistant principals, Secretary to the K-5 Director, Data Manager, and Secretary to the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. Her journey reflects dedication, growth, and a deep love for public education.
“I am proud of myself for sticking with it, for advancing in my career,” she shared. “With so many different people and faces that come through, you learn a little bit from everyone that sticks with you. I have really enjoyed that.”
Maddox has also been a proud leader within the Lee County Association of Educational Office Professionals (LCAEOP), serving two terms as local president and contributing at the state level through various committees and positions, a testament to her commitment to professional excellence.
Throughout her career, Becky has built meaningful relationships across the district.
“I have enjoyed everyone that I’ve worked with. I have especially loved working with Dr. Dossenbach and Dr. Kelly the last few years. I have had a lot of fun working with the people here in the Central Office.
While the Central Office has been home for many years, Maddox fondly remembers her time working directly in schools.
“In some ways, I have missed being in a school because I have missed being around the children. They talk to you. They tell it like it is. If they’re having problems at home or a bad day, they come to you looking for that love and support. I definitely miss that.”
One of her favorite memories comes from overseeing ISS scheduling at Lee Senior.
“I was over ISS scheduling for Lee Senior and boy are there some tales there,” she said with a laugh. “After I left Lee Senior, I’d go to the grocery store and have students come up shopping with their parents and say, ‘Hey Mrs. Maddox! I miss you!’ The parents would ask how I know their child and I’d just look at the kids before they would inevitably say, ‘Because she put me in ISS.’”
She laughs at the memory, but what stands out most is the impact.
“You never know when you might turn some child’s life around. Even a couple that were in ISS are now working in the school system, and I can remember seeing them there and seeing where they are now makes me smile.”
For Maddox, education has always been about growth - not just for students, but for herself as well.
“To my younger self, I would say be prepared for all the experiences you are going to receive, the friendships you are going to make, the people you will meet. Make sure you understand that it is a learning experience. Every step of the way is a learning experience.”
She also reflects proudly on balancing career and family, sharing how she stayed home with her children until they started school and made sure to always be there for them.
“I haven’t looked back and regretted a single day that I was able to be there for my kids and my family.”
As she steps into retirement, Becky is not slowing down. She has quilting classes planned and exciting travel ahead including trips to see her grandson graduate in Iowa, a cruise around Norway and Northern Great Britain as well as a fall trip to New England.
“I would have never thought retirement would look like this. I would have just thought I would be sitting at home with my husband - although he has passed on now. My dad was a traveler, and I have always liked to travel. I want to explore new things. I have been praying all along that my health would hold on so I can enjoy some traveling and seeing new things.”
Her final reflection speaks to the heart of who she is and her 38 years of commitment to the students of the district:
“You just try to better yourself each day and share your life and open a door for a child.”
Becky Maddox’s legacy is one of service, compassion, professionalism, and heart. Thank you for a remarkable 38 years of dedication to Lee County Schools. We wish you a retirement filled with joy, adventure, quilting, travel, and new experiences ahead!