2011 NCTOY Ceremony

"For more than 50 years our nation has honored teachers with the National Teacher of the Year Program. The National Teacher of the Year Program, sponsored by the ING Foundation, is a project of the Council of Chief State School Officers. Since 1970, North Carolina has participated in this program recognizing outstanding teachers." -Department of Public Instruction

In April of 2011, I was announced as the 2011 North Carolina Teacher of the Year. My original career goals did not include a public classroom nor did it involve connecting with students in the way that I have over the past nine years. While working in the Department of Corrections field and as a foster parent, I witnessed first hand the pathway that a lack of education can create and how it shapes our youth. One of my foster sons created an awareness that due to demands and instruction curriculum, educators often fail to study the story of each of their students. This thought is what created the urgency and desire to change career paths and enter into the ever changing field of education. 

When I was named the 2011 NCTOY, I was humbled because I was surrounded by excellence. The thought that first entered my mind was "What happens in the morning?" In the morning is symbolic of the changes that need to take place and the elements that need to be in place to create the necessary connections for success. Below are photos that recap the special event for me that changed my life.

Pictured with Dr. Bill Harrison, Chairman North Carolina State Board of Education, and Dr. June Atkinson, Superintendent of Public Schools of North Carolina after being presented with the Award of Excellence. 

Teresa Faucette, Principal at Graham Middle School, and I upon recognition

2011 Regional Winners

 Thomas Plecnik - Marci Houseman - Regina Johnston - Tyronna Hooker - Callie Smith - Dr. June Atkinson - Eric Grant - Ferdinand Cooper - Suzie Sanders - Andy Blevins 

2011 Regional Winners