SALISBURY — Partners In Learning staff members laced up their sneakers and their problem-solving skills on Friday during a citywide “Fun Run” designed to combine fun, professional growth and team building. A total of 60 staff participated, divided into 12 teams of five. With clue cards in hand, teams navigated through Salisbury to five challenge stations: Bell Tower Green, Rowan Public Library, Goodwill Industries, Morlan Park and Norma’s Way Adventure Forest at Partners In Learning. At each stop, teams faced a challenge that incorporated staff development in creative ways.
Highlights included: Goodwill Industries — Staff received donated gift cards to shop for dress-code-appropriate clothing while also completing a professionalism activity. Morlan Park — Teams competed in a lively Jeopardy-style game with questions on early childhood education, organizational culture and workplace best practices. Bell Tower Green — Teams who successfully completed the challenge received a $100 bonus per member. To keep the day accessible, every team was provided with funds for gas and lunch. Excitement peaked when the Straight Out of the Woods team crossed the finish line first, winning $50 LongHorn gift cards for each member.
“This event was more than just a fun run — it was a chance to refresh, connect and grow as a team,” Executive Director Norma Honeycutt said. “Our staff pour their hearts into the children and families we serve every day. We wanted this day to be a reminder of how much they are valued.” Partners In Learning extended gratitude to the families who made alternative care arrangements so staff could dedicate the day to professional growth. The Fun Run reaffirmed the organization’s commitment not only to redefining early education, intervention and family support across Rowan County but also to investing in the development and well-being of its staff.