The Smile Behind the Desk: Nour Alzer

At Farmington Elementary, the first friendly face most families see each morning belongs to Nour Alzer. Known for her quick humor, steady presence, and a smile that never fades, Nour has been recognized as Farmington’s nominee for the Tennessee Department of Education’s RISE Award (Recognizing Inspiring School Employees). The award honors non-teaching school employees who go above and beyond to support students, staff, and families, and Nour embodies exactly that.

A day in the life of a front office worker is filled with nonstop motion. Checking in parents, fielding phone calls, finding lost lunchboxes, answering questions about bus schedules, and offering bandages to students who wander in for help keeps her in motion throughout the day. Nour laughs that it feels a little like being the mom of 670 children. “It’s busy, but I love it,” she said. “The kids come in with everything from band-aid requests to needing to call home. Parents drop by with questions, and through it all you just try to keep everyone calm and cared for.”

Her sense of humor is part of the magic. “Nour has a way of easing worries with kindness and laughter,” said Judy Barton. “Even in the middle of a hectic day, she never lets the stress spill over to the students or families. It’s amazing.”

Those who work alongside Nour say she never hesitates to pitch in where she’s needed. From helping the PTO set up events, to stepping into a classroom so a teacher can take a quick break, to grabbing last-minute supplies for the school, Nour is the kind of colleague who sees a need and meets it.

“She’s the face of Farmington,” said Cassie Bratcher. “She’s protective of our school and our kids, and she’s also deeply involved in PTO. She even thinks about things like making sure teachers have snacks for afternoon meetings. She truly makes our lives easier.”

Officer Mango agreed, noting that Nour’s reliability and warmth have shaped Farmington’s welcoming culture. “She’s easy to love, and her sense of humor just makes the front office a place people want to be.”

Nour’s path to the front desk began as a volunteer. After more than a decade as a stay-at-home mom, she joined the PTO and occasionally worked as a substitute before stepping into her role full-time. “I loved being part of the school community,” Nour said. “When the opportunity came, it just felt right. I wanted to serve the kids and families in a different way.”
Farmington will soon have to say goodbye, as Nour and her family are relocating to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for her husband’s career. It makes her recognition as Farmington’s RISE nominee all the more meaningful.

Principal Ashley Brasfield summed it up best: “Nour goes above and beyond every single day. Her reliability, kindness, and joyful spirit set the tone for our entire school family. Farmington is truly better because of her.”