DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — CBS 17 sat down exclusively with the leader of C.C. Spaulding Elementary, the latest principal of the year within Durham Public Schools.

Vanessa Alford received the award earlier this month during a surprise announcement in front of her students and staff.

The veteran educator said she's committed to the development of her scholars, starting her teaching career in Charlotte-Mecklenberg Schools before moving up the ranks.

"I really have been on cloud nine since I've gotten the news," Alford said. "I think the day that I received it, I probably cried most of the day because my staff was able to surprise me."

The former Merrick-Moore Elementary principal said she grew up in a family of 14 children. She attributes much of her success to her parents who instilled the i

See Full Page