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On National Career Coach Day, Jan. 8, Lowndes County Career Technical Center (LCCTC) administrators expressed their heartfelt gratitude for someone who commits her life to helping students reach their full potential.

Samari Watts, the center’s career coach, serves students at both The Calhoun School and Central High School in Hayneville, helping them plan the next chapter of their lives after high school. In November 2024, she was named Teacher of the Month because of her willingness to be a “go-to” person for the center.

Center Director Shameka Baker described Watts as someone who is extremely helpful and willing to take on any task.

“She’s a doer,” Baker said. “Whatever it is that you need done, she takes care of it. She exceeds way above and beyond what is asked of her.”

A commitment to excellence comes naturally to Watts who said she volunteers whenever she can.

“Most of the time, I’m doing above and beyond because I love the kids,’ Watts said.

Her love and dedication is not limited to those close to graduation though. In November, Watts coordinated and hosted the center’s elementary school career day, inviting area professionals and student-led organizations to address children from Jackson-Steele Elementary, Central Elementary and Fort Deposit Elementary schools to give them a glimpse into what careers are available after high school.

“When they get to high school, sometimes [students] don’t have exposure to different things,” Watts explained. The emphasis, called Careers on Wheels, brought law enforcement, the military, insurance agencies and other career professionals to talk one-on-one with elementary-aged children to get them thinking about future careers.

Watts was honored on Career Coach Day for her dedication and hard work.

“Your commitment to supporting and guiding our students makes such a difference,” said LCCTC administrators in a social media post. “Thank you for all you do to inspire success and pave the way for brighter futures.”