Sarah Moore Greene Magnet Academy announced three teachers selected by their peers to represent the school as 2023 Teachers of the Year. The Knox County Teacher of the Year for each grade band will be announced from all district-wide delegates in February.
Megan Wallace is a behavior support teacher in their PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) classroom. Robin Curry, principal, says Wallace “builds strong relationships with students and staff and is always willing to place their needs above her own.”
Wallace’s favorite quote: ”To the world, you may be one person, but to one person, you may be the world.”
Samantha Bolton teaches second grade and has been a special education teacher at SMG for many years, but decided to make a change to general education. Curry says of Bolton, “She has a passion for students at SMGMA and works tirelessly to provide a positive educational experience for all of her students.”
Bolton’s favorite quotes are both from John Wooden: “The best competition I have is against myself to become better. Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.”
Terri Barlowe is a special education teacher and chair of the special education department. Curry says, “Terri has been instrumental in supporting the new special education teachers this year. She also is always willing to go above and beyond to support the students who need it the most.”
Barlowe’s favorite quote is by Maya Angelou: ”I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Sarah Moore Greene has always recognized the contribution of everyone on the staff and the school continues to do so by choosing a teaching assistant of the year. This year the award went to Javonna Huffine, also known as Ms. J., a special education teaching assistant. Curry says of Ms. J., “She is always seen working with students with a smile on her face. She brings so much love and joy to our school and staff and students absolutely adore her. ”
Huffine’s favorite quote: ”Believe in yourself.”
Congratulations to Megan Wallace, Samantha Bolton, Terri Barlowe and Javonna Huffine, four of the best educators in our area who are empowering students to be their best!
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