Six teachers got a surprise start to the 2020-21 school year as they were named semifinalists for the honor of Henry County Schools Teacher of the Year.
Every school in the district announced their respective teacher of the year prior to school letting out for the summer. Each of those teachers wishing to compete for the district’s top teaching honor had to complete an extensive application which was then reviewed by a selection committee. The application process involved, among other things, candidates answering a series of questions aimed at highlighting their classroom influence, understanding of the major education topics beyond their classroom, and involvement inside the building and beyond the school walls.
The tough task of narrowing down 52 teachers to six culminated with two elementary, two middle, and two high school teachers progressing to the Select Six.
Over the course of two days on the last week of pre-planning, Superintendent Davis, members of the Board of Education, school officials, and co-workers pitched in to make surprise announcements to the individuals at their schools. Working through the unique circumstances of the pandemic, the surprise committee members used the cautious approach of wearing masks and social distancing when making the announcements in person, and they even employed online meetings to share the big news.
The six semifinalists who are one step closer to the district’s top honor are as follows:
- Laura Lamb – Rock Spring Elementary
- Tabatha Wesley – Timber Ridge Elementary
- Deborah Sechrist – Dutchtown Middle School
- Melanie Kellam – McDonough Middle School
- Yetta Smith – Hampton High School
- James Forsythe – Luella High School
These teachers and 46 more from the remaining schools around the school district will be honored as a part of the 2020 Teacher of the Year ceremony on Thursday, October 22. This year’s recognition is sponsored by Eagles Landing Health.
“Our teachers are the most impactful professionals anywhere,” said Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis. “Without great teachers, other jobs just would not be possible. That’s why we believe our future starts with a teacher. We look forward to celebrating these exceptional teachers for their work during these unprecedented times.”
For more information on Henry County Schools, visit www. henry.k12.ga.us.
