The Jackson-Madison County School System recognized 26 educators at its annual teacher of the year celebration, held May 26 at the Jackson Country Club. The luncheon identified and recognized the importance and impact of teachers in the school system.
Individuals who have taught at their respective schools for a minimum of three years, have positive growth patterns and are involved in their communities are eligible for nomination. Each school votes their own teacher of the year, then a committee assembles to choose the district level winners and the overall winner.
Award recipients are:
Jennifer Horner, Alexander Elementary School
Lily Courtner, Community Montessori School
Belinda Murchinson, Denmark Elementary School
Jessica McClure, East Elementary School
Devona Hollis, Isaac Lane Elementary School
Nicole Whitt, Jackson Academic Steam Academy
Shelley Billings, JCM Early College High School
Tekia Buntyn, Jackson Central Merry Middle School
Jessica Plunk, Jackson Central Merry High School
Michelle Maclin, Jackson Careers & Technology
Albert Riney, Liberty High School
Tranequa Harrell, Lincoln Elementary School
Tiffany Soriano, Madison Academic Magnet High School
Katie Spain, North Parkway Middle School
Kathryn Harper, Northeast Middle School
Dr. Jezel Ross, Nova Early Learning Center
Sam Davis, Parkview Prep Academy
Tonya Rogers, Pope School
Tara Brooks, Rose Hill School
Mary Emison, South Elementary School
Stephanie Jones, South Side High School
Joy Sanders, Thelma Barker Elementary School
Chasity Barker, West Bemis Middle School
Tamara Fortner, a first grade teacher at Arlington Elementary School, received the Prek-4th district level award.
Alyssa Pearman, a teacher at North Side High School, received the 9th-12th district level award.
Angelina Halstead, a fifth grade science and social studies teacher at Andrew Jackson Elementary School, received the district wide teacher of the year award. Through this recognition, she will be nominated for the regional teacher of the year award and has the potential to be nominated for the Tennessee teacher of the year award.
“I love being with kids and watching them go from being a little shy or a little more reserved and finding ways to become leaders in their own ways,” said Halstead. “I’m tough on them sometimes, but it’s that tough love when they realize more than anything, I care deeply for them.”
The teacher of the year awards were sponsored by West Tennessee Healthcare, Leader’s Education Foundation and SAVAAS Learning Company.
