2014-2015 Teacher of the Year

2014-2015Wilson County

TeacherOF THEYear

CEDARSTONE BANK and WILSON COUNTY MOTORS

CongratulationsKali MeyerHolder

A SPECIAL SECTION OFTHE LEBANON DEMOCRATAND MT. JULIET NEWS

better educationSimply

CongratulationstoKaliMeyerHolder,a7thgrademathteacheratWalterJ.BairdMiddleSchool,forbeingselectedasthe201415WilsonCountyTeacheroftheYear.PicturedwithKaliareCedarStoneBankempoyees(fromleft)JohnB.Bryan,DebbieWhited,RobertMcDonaldandbankPresidentBobMcDonald.

Thereisnomoreimportantjobthantheeducationofourchildren;ourfuturedependsonit.ThatswhyweareproudtosponsortheWilsonCountyTeacheroftheYearcelebrationeachyearwithourfriendsatWilsonCountyMotors.For17

yearswehavehonoredoutstandingeducatorsinWilsonCountyandwesalutethe30honoreesforthe201415schoolyear.Wecongratulateandthankyouall!

2015

2015 Wilson County teaChers of the year 1

By Jared Felkins, [email protected]

If there was one word that could sum up the 2015 Wilson County Teacher of the Year Banquet on Friday night, it would be stories.The stories teachers, principals, former students and all gathered

at Baird Chapel on the Cumberland University campus shared were enough to fill a bestselling series of books on the relationships between students and their teachers. Bob McDonald, president of CedarStone Bank, talked about a teacher

he had in high school named Mrs. Ford. It seems McDonald, a self-proclaimed jokester in high school, went to Mrs. Ford about his plans for college during his senior year in 1978. But Mrs. Ford apparently shut the door on McDonald, telling him he didnt take school seriously enough. I thought about it a lot, McDonald said. I did graduate. After I

graduated college, I went to my old school. I couldnt wait to see her and rub it in her face.She told me, Bob, I knew you could, but I didnt know what else

to do. No one could have challenged me like Mrs. Ford did. You are Mrs. Fords.Both McDonald and Wilson County Motors owner W.P. Bone III in-

troduced the past teachers of the year from the program, which is in its 17th year. The annual banquet honors the countys top teacher and the

30 nominees from each school in Wilson County.Were here to honor teachers, Bone said. We think teach-

ing is an extremely honorable profession. Were here to say we appreciate what you do.Former Southside Elementary School principal Danny Hill,

who now works as a consultant with Power of ICU a group that works with schools to revive student engagement served as guest speaker and introduced the 2015 Wilson County Teacher of the Year. Prior to his introduction, Hill told stories of his days around the Southside kindergarteners and told the teachers in attendance to write down and remember their sto-ries. He said those stories could be sitcom material one day. Then Hill turned his attention to the anticipated announce-

ment of the 2015 Wilson County Teacher of the Year, Kali Meyer Holder, a seventh-grade math teacher at Walter J. Baird Middle School. This is what a parent said about the 2015 winner, said Hill

in his introduction. This teacher is especially diligent in turn-ing the students on to learning all students who come into our school. A co-worker said this about the 2015 winner. This teacher creates an awesome culture for learning.A parent said this about you. This teacher gave generously

of their valued time in teaching children beyond the school day. This teacher soaks their children in whatever help they need and individually looks at them and meets their needs. A student said this. Last year I was terrible at math, but

thankfully I had you as my math teacher. Youre great. I went from below basic in math in sixth grade to advanced in math in

seventh grade because of you.Standing behind her chair, Hill called Holders name as the 2015

Wilson County Teacher of the Year. She hugged Lebanon Director of Schools Scott Benson as she approached the stage to accept her award and $1,500 check. Walter J. Baird Middle School also received $500. Im very, very honored, Holder said. I love my profession. Ive

grown so much as a teacher in the Lebanon Special School District, and Im very fortunate to have been hired here.Then Holder shared a story of her own. I sat in Scott Bensons Lebanon High School office, and I inter-

viewed with his son in there with me. In fact, when I was introduced at Walter J. Baird, he said when I hired you, my son told me I should.Im very, very lucky. Im very, very fortunate. I love kids. Thats why

Im here. I want them to learn.Holder has taught at Walter J. Baird Middle School for the past four

years. She started at the school as a seventh-grade language arts teach-er, moved to eighth-grade math in 2007 and then taught sixth- and seventh-grade math in 2011. Shes taught for 10 years, nine of those in Wilson County. She started her career at Gra-Mar Middle School in Nashville in 2005 as a fifth-grade math, reading, language arts and science teacher.

Cover and page 3 photos by Al Ashworth, Creative Color

The 2015 Wilson County Teacherof the Year nominees included:

Cathy Fraley ByarsDowdyElementarySchool.Tammy Boothe Carroll-OaklandElementarySchool.Mandy Pittman, CastleHeightsElementarySchool.Dawn Willis, ColesFerryElementarySchool.Sarah Jordan, ElzieD.PattonElementarySchool.Sandi Smith, FriendshipChristianSchool.Angela Gardner, GladevilleElementarySchool.Lindsey McCaslin, LakeviewElementarySchool.Lindsay Mosley, LebanonHighSchool.Brad Major,MAPAcademy.Debbie Rittenberry, McClainChristianAcademy.Rene Inman Martin, Mt.JulietChristianAcademy.Dawn Adams, Mt.JulietElementarySchool.David Agee, Mt.JulietHighSchool.Denise Combs DeFevers, Mt.JulietMiddleSchool.Jennifer Graves, RutlandElementarySchool.Bridgette Fisher, SamHoustonElementarySchool.Janet Elaine Spruill, SouthsideElementarySchool.Lena Boyd, StonerCreekElementarySchool.Angie Johnson, TuckersCrossroadsElementarySchool.Nathan Smith, W.A.WrightElementarySchool.Lora Stutts, WatertownElementarySchool.Debbie Willard, WatertownMiddleSchool.Cyndi Vaught, WatertownHighSchool.Scarlett Chadwell, WestElementarySchool.Mary Edwards, WestWilsonMiddleSchool.Ann Nored, WilsonCentralHighSchool.Joy Shaw, WilsonCountyAdultHighSchool.Audrey Burger, WinfreeBryantMiddleSchool.

Kali Meyer Holder named 2015 Wilson County Teacher of the Year


Cathy L. FraleyKindergartenByars Dowdy Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 5 No. Years in Current Position: 5 No. Years in Wilson County: 6

What She Said: One of my favorite quotes has always been Students do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. I truly believe that students will work harder for a teacher that they love and respect. Building and creating a family environment in our classroom where students feel safe, loved and supported is the most basic building block on which everything else is achieved.

What They Said: We often refer to her as The Child Whis-perer at our house because not only is she an incredible educator, but a sense of comfort for our child, said Joy Pine, a parent. We have seen tremendous improvement in our childs performance, and as a parent volunteer I have seen amazing improvement in other students academics, as well.

Mandy PittmanPre-kindergarten Castle Heights Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 11No. Years in Current Position: 9No. Years in Wilson County: 11

What She Said: It is crucial that I provide a loving, organized environment while using developmentally appropriate practices that focus on the academic and social-emotional growth of each of my students.

What They Said: Through her innovative and reflective approach to teaching, she manifests a teacher leader-ship that both reflects well on the profession and inspires those around her, said Tiffany McHenry, educator and trainer. I am forever indebted to Mandy and for her ability to bring collaboration and passion for a career to life in the classroom.

Kali Meyer HolderSeventh-grade mathWalter J. Baird Middle SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 10No. Years in Current Position: 4No. Years in Wilson County: 9

What She Said: As a teacher, it is my responsibility to ensure that my students are provided with support and experiences within a safe and structured environment that lead to success and growth. I desire to effect change and believe that every student can succeed. Educating students is my passion.

What They Said: Kali facilitates an environment of learning in her classroom where she guides students through their individual learning process, said Tina Clarity, seventh-grade math and science teacher at Walter J. Baird Middle School. The enthusiasm for teaching middle school students that Kali demonstrates daily in her classroom is evident. Her students know she has high expectations for them and that she is willing to help them at any time. Her willing-ness to go above and beyond to collaborate with other teachers shows her true leadership qualities.


Dawn WillisKindergartenColes Ferry Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 18No. Years in Current Position: 12No. Years in Wilson County: 18

What She Said: I work hard to find meaningful strategies that work to meet each students individual needs. Doing whatever it takes means much more than just meeting a childs needs academically, but physically and emotionally, as well.

What They Said: It is one thing to get the kids to love you. It is another thing entirely to be good at what you do. Dawn Willis does both, Fran ORiordan said. I consider myself incredibly blessed to have had her usher my own children into the often scary world of public education.

Sarah JordanThird gradeElzie Patton Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 8No. Years in Current Position: 4No. Years in Wilson County: 8

What She Said: I have always referred to my class as a family because I want my students to know that they arent the only ones learning and Im here to support them. It is vital that I teach my students how to self-reflect upon their learning experi-ences, strengths and weaknesses to maintain awareness within them.

What They Said: Ive seen Ms. Jordan pull academic greatness out of an autistic child who previous teachers dismissed as incapable, said Katie Rozzell, Elzie Patton school counselor. Ive seen tears roll down her face after discovering belt-buckle-shaped bruises on her students back, only to quickly wipe them away and step back into her lesson for the sale of the rest of her class.

Tammy BootheKindergartenCarroll-Oakland Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 12No. Years in Current Position: 4No. Years in Wilson County: 5

What She Said: I strive to help students learn by teaching them what is needed to live a balanced life. In our so-ciety today, school is the only desirable, loving and stable place some students ever experience. It is my intent to provide an enjoyable learning experience for Kindergarten students. With the right leader, I believe, every child can succeed and learn in his own time and his own way.

What They Said: Tammy is a problem solver, an innovator, a cheerleader and a great team player, said Title 1 intervention teacher Melissa Bay. Tammy has a passion for learning and goes above and beyond to assure that each and every one of her students learns to their maximum potential. Tammy communicates accolades and needs to her parents each day. She allows students to call parents during the day to let them know that are having a great day, but also sometimes calls mom when a boost is needed during the day.


Angela GardnerArtGladeville Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 8No. Years in Current Position: 5No. Years in Wilson County: 5

What She Said: As an educator, I truly believe that each stu-dent has a unique voice that should be heard and valued, so that they will be confident in us-ing it throughout life. Every child deserves the opportunity to self-define as successful, and I AM an artist, is a powerful statement.

What They Said: I would venture to say that one can come to the small community of Gladeville, Tenn., and experience the same appreciation of art as one would visiting the Frist Center in Nashville, said Gladeville principal Monica Fox. Creating art can be an intimidating process. But, Angela has built such a safe environment in which all of our students feel safe and free to express themselves creatively.

Lindsey McCaslinFifth-grade math Lakeview Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 6No. Years in Current Position: 5No. Years in Wilson County: 5

What She Said: I am strongly committed to helping all students reach their highest potential, and in order to effectively stretch my students, I strive to be a consistent, caring, fair and understanding teach-er who considers the whole child throughout the learning process.

What They Said: Using patience, consistency, humor and highly effective teaching strategies, Mrs. McCaslin connects with her students as individuals and allows them to succeed to the maximum extent possible, Bekki Pickney said. She understands each childs unique needs and strives to meet them.

Sandi SmithKindergartenFriendship Christian SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 12 No. Years in Current Position: 10 No. Years in Wilson County: 10

What She Said: Along the way I learned that a teacher is not something you desire to be. Its what you are. Its in every fiber of your being. No matter where you go, its what you end up doing. When you have play dates with other moms and kids, youre the one who ends up lead-ing the kids in a game or craft. When youre a counselor at church camp, youre asked to use youre teacher voice to give instructions or teach a lesson. You find teachable moments everywhere you go, to the point that your own children get tired of hearing you talk.

What They Said: Sandi works collaboratively with all her col-leagues at our school. She has been a mentor to me during my time at Friendship, said, Ashley Broomfield, second-grade teacher. I have al-ways found her to be such a professional by lis-tening to others opinions with interest, offering suggestions and demonstrating a willingness to try new strategies. She is always researching the newest and most effective practices to help reach each student in her class.


Brad MajorMiddle School/High School; primarily SpanishMAP AcademyNo. Years Teaching Total: 9No. Years in Current Position: 1No. Years in Wilson County: 6

What He Said:I find it important to not only be an effective teacher, but to never graduate from being a student. I attend conferences yearly and use my summers to travel and interact with the language and participate in conferences, workshops and seminars for educators. I have found that par-ticipating in workshops for teachers outside of foreign languages also helps me borrow and implement effective methodology for my classes.

What They Said: During his tenure at Wilson Central, he taught a variety of Spanish classes and assisted with the boys basketball program, said Wilson Central assistant principal, Jason Franklin. Mr. Major was a great role model for his students and ath-letes...During my 14 years here as an assistant principal Mr. Major is one of the best teachers I have ever witnessed at demonstrating care and concern for all of his students.

Deborah A. RittenberryReading/Language Arts for multiple grade levelsMcClain Christian AcademyNo. Years Teaching Total: 8No. Years in Current Position: 2No. Years in Wilson County: 7

What She Said: I want to say that teaching is an important field, and I wish that all the teachers could be recognized for their hard work. Each day in the classroom brings so many new and exciting learning opportunities, and if I can help the stu-dents connect that learning and make it relevant to their lives, then I have accomplished a very important job. Learning never stops. And that is apparent each day that I am in the classroom. Not only am I striving to create an environment where all students feel successful and confident in their learning, but, I too, learn something new each day.

What They Said: During the years we have taught together, said Tonya Sacci. Debbie has always worked above and beyond what was required to ensure that her students are successful. She takes a personal interest in each student and truly teaches him or her. She shows love and acceptance to each child, which in return helps them be successful.

Lindsay Mosley11th and 12th-grade English and journalismLebanon High SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 14No. Years in Current Position: 12No. Years in Wilson County: 14

What She Said: It is a beautiful time for me to see them apply what I have taught them. I allow them to see me have fun as well. It is important for students to see us intellectuals who respect and support one another. It is also important for them to see us have fun and enjoy the whole experience of school and work.

What They Said: To me, the biggest testament to Lindsays fabulous teaching is that she is the teacher that I would want my own kids to have one day, Kate Plumlee said. Students fill her class every year, not because shes the cool teacher, but because they know that they will ne pushed and more importantly, that she cares for them.

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Teachers play an enormously important role. They teach and inspire, guiding our kids towardbright, successful futures. They act as educators

and role models, broadening minds and encouraging achievement. We recognize teachers for their dedication to helping our

children succeed.

Lebanon Special School DistrictCommitted to a Community of Excellence

CongratulatesAll Teachers ofWilson County

241 West Main Street Lebanon, TN (615) 444-2142 www.ligonbobo.com

2014-2015 Teachers of the Year Ceremony


David AgeeGrades 9-12. English; Speech; Introduction to FilmMt. Juliet High SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 35No. Years in Current Position: 15No. Years in Wilson County: 33

What He Said: Students need direction. In class we talk about being proactive, managing time and developing a strong work ethic. Academics is the reason for school, and of course, is extremely important, but equally important is a sense of purpose.

What They Said: Mr. Agee has an exceptionally broad under-standing of and models effective teaching strategies every day, said Mt. Juliet High School principal Mel Brown. He has high positive expectations for his students and does an exceptional job of differentiating his instruc-tion to see that they learn at the highest levels possible.

Dawn N. AdamsSecond gradeMt. Juliet Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 15 No. Years in Current Position: 12 No. Years in Wilson County: 15

What She Said: I want students to develop a love of learning and the stamina to keep working when concepts are difficult to grasp. Students are often prompt-ed to help each other by guiding their peer to discover an answer, not telling him an answer. I encourage students to view their classmates as valued resources for their academic learning and as friends. I want them to take ownership of their learningWhen students view their school tasks as fun and not laborious work more true learning takes place.

What They Said: The environment she provides is both lov-ing and nurturingShe lovingly educates her students on a daily basisIt is obvious from the moment you walk into her classroom that she has created an atmosphere of caring and respect between herself and her students, said Mt. Juliet Elementary School principal Ginger Ash. She offers her students much more than a simple education; she offers them guidance in character building skills and real life experiences.

Renee MartinThird grade Mt. Juliet Christian Academy No. Years Teaching Total: 18No. Years in Current Position: 1No. Years in Wilson County: 18

What She Said: In short, my journey to teaching is simply stated in one word: passion. From the examples of my past teachers to my colleagues I learn from today, this has been the most foundational of all ingredients. It drew me in and pushed me to pursue my own classroom.

What They Said: Quality that is a word that describes Mrs. Martin in preparation, in teaching, in profes-sionalism, in relationships, in working with others and in character, said Mt. Juliet Chris-tian principal Amanda Van Vactor. These are vitally important within the educational profes-sion. It is a joy to work alongside Mrs. Martin.


Bridgette FisherSecond gradeSam Houston Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 16No. Years in Current Position: 7No. Years in Wilson County: 16

What She Said: Being creative in the deliverance of subject matter is crucial to student learning and suc-cess. Its important for students to make real-life connections in learning so the learning is meaningful and relevant. Students today live in a technical world so its so important for their learning to include technology... Im thankful to be living my lifelong dream of teaching. Sure it has its challenges with each year, month and day; however, I know Im living my calling.

What They Said: Bridgette is a highly skilled, dedicated and professional educator, said Sam Houston El-ementary School principal Julie Beasley. She works diligently to design her classroom in-struction to meet the developmental and diverse needs of her studentsHer passion for teaching and love for her students is evident in who she is as a person and in the job that she does each and every day.

Jennifer GravesKindergarten Rutland Elementary School No. Years Teaching Total: 13No. Years in Current Position: 13No. Years in Wilson County: 13

What She Said: I am passionate about my job and realize the huge responsibility I have daily to meet each childs educational, emotional and social needs. I want every child in my class to have fun, be challenged, be excited to learn and to feel loved.

What They Said: The students want to please her and do their best, Rutland principal Stephanie Hines said. Her classroom is a happy place with a focus on enhancing each childs self-esteem. She has served students of every level of academic abil-ity and those with great physical challenges.

Denise Combs DeFeversPhysical educationMt. Juliet Middle SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 13No. Years in Current Position: 12No. Years in Wilson County: 13

What She Said: My goal as an educator is to engage my stu-dents everyday in orderto motivate them to want to learn more. I love teaching and coaching and working with childrenI teach more than games in my classes. As a middle school physical education teacher, one of my jobs is to encour-age students to achieve a more active lifestyle. I need for them to understand the benefits of being active and develop a lifelong desire to continue to be active. In order to accomplish this I have to incorporate a variety of activities hoping to find at least one, and hopefully more, for each of them to find enjoyable and stimulating.What They Said: Each day I see her work tirelessly to ensure that each child reaches his own best potential for that day, said Debra Martin, school counselor. She is one of the most tireless educators I know. De-nise is not only planning, preparing and instruct-ing her students that she is charged with, but also takes the reign on any school wide projects to ensure that her school and students receive the best quality of education they can receive.


Angela Lee JohnsonFirst grade Tuckers Crossroads SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 21No. Years in Current Position: 17No. Years in Wilson County: 17

What She Said:I place a heavy emphasis on reading in my classroom. My shelves are filled with books. My students will see me reading, talking about books and I constantly encourage them to read. I believe that reading is the key to success in all academic areas.

What They Said: She has been a positive role model, not only for students, but also for the staff, Tuckers Crossroads principal Susan Breedwell said. She doesnt let life get in her way and she doesnt let the students experience that either. She continually motivates them to try again until they are successful.

Lena BoydMusicStoner Creek Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 18No. Years in Current Position: 14No. Years in Wilson County: 14

What She Said: I often find myself questioning my purpose. Why do I continue to teach? It seems teaching has become all about data and test scores. Why do I spend hours preparing lessons, choosing music and scripts for the students to perform? Why? My answer is simple and always the same. I love my students and I know music can help them learn about themselves and the world around them.

What They Said: If you walk into her music lesson, students are moving and making music, said Stoner Creek principal Christine Miller. They are constantly engaged. Once you walk into Mrs. Boyds classroom, it is difficult to leave.

Janet Elaine SpruillFirst gradeSouthside Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 37No. Years in Current Position: 11No. Years in Wilson County: 37

What She Said: I wake up every morning eager to greet my 22 first graders and make a difference in their lives. The challenge of shaping young minds, although daunting, is still exciting, and teaching is not just my job, but my God-given calling.

What They Said: It has been a great privilege to watch Mrs. Spruill doing what she loves teaching stu-dents, said former parent, Jenny Simms. She doesnt look at students as a grade or a test. Each student is an individual with great poten-tial. She doesnt allow the students to say, I cant, and she doesnt give them permission to quit. I know this firsthand, she taught both of my children.


Debbie WillardSeventh-grade mathWatertown Middle SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 13No. Years in Current Position: 13No. Years in Wilson County: 13

What She Said: I believe all students possess the power to succeed. I want my students to be successful in the classroom. Therefore, I create a classroom environment that is both safe and comfortable. My students know that they can comment or ask questions without having to worry about what someone might say.

What They Said: Debbie Willards classroom is a very positive learning environment, said Amy Upchurch. Mrs. Willard has a caring, welcoming manner that makes even shy students feel comfortable when asking questions about math. She encour-ages students to work each math problem thor-oughly to ensure understanding of the concepts being taught.

Lora StuttsFifth-grade math and scienceWatertown Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 13No. Years in Current Position: 1No. Years in Wilson County: 13

What She Said: I believe school should be fun. 180 days is way too long to be trapped with a boring per-son. I strive daily to help kids enjoy school. My style of teaching is comfortable, where students know they can laugh, they can make mistakes and they can be human.

What They Said: Mrs. Stutts uses her hands-on approach in the classroom as the students are actively engaged in the learning. She plans her lessons so her students will enjoy math and science, said Watertown Elementary principal Anita Chris-tian. She cares about her students, believes in them, and therefore her students work hard in her classes.

Nathan SmithFifth-grade math and scienceW.A. Wright Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 9No. Years in Current Position: 8No. Years in Wilson County: 9

What He Said: Every day I go to school with a single goal in mind: I want my students to reach their poten-tial. While I realize that wont happen every day, I believe its a worthwhile, achievable goal to move towards. I realize not all students learn in the same way. For students to succeed, they must be kept on their toes through the imple-mentation of various teaching methods and strategies.

What They Said: During my time working as a colleague to Mr. Smith, he continually found ways to engage students, help them develop a love of science and routinely raised students science achieve-ment and growth scores, said Lakeview as-sistant principal Tiffany Brown. Mr. Smith can often be found jumping on a table in the middle of a lesson to grab students attention as well as other ways to show passion for his subject.

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Mary EdwardsEighth-grade history West Wilson Middle School No. Years Teaching Total: 26No. Years in Current Position: 22No. Years in Wilson County: 23

What She Said: I make use of community resources, including people, in my classroom. I try to tie everyday life to their learning, which in turn amplifies the relationship of history, today. I also seek out collaboration with my fellow subject teachers and other cross curricular teachers to try and emphasize a well-rounded student.

What They Said: She works well with her fellow teachers to continually strengthen her class and our school, said David Akins, West Wilson as-sistant principal. Her pleasant demeanor and caring attitude extends to those around her who call her their colleague as her professional side much reflects her personal character.

Scarlett ChadwellFifth-grade mathWest Elementary SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 6No. Years in Current Position: 6No. Years in Wilson County: 6

What She Said: A central theme of my teaching philosophy is to fill my class with real world activities. Each day is spent relating the current math concept we are learning to how it can be used in life. We cook shop, prepare budgets, plan trips and learn about debits and credits. I make it my mission to emphasized how much math is used everyday and in every profession.

What They Said: Mrs. Chadwell is a servant leader in our school, said Becky Siever, West Elementary School principal. She is our go-to person for all school dances. She began a school dance several years ago as a fundraising event for her students to be able to attend Biz Town. She saw the need was there for financial help for many students who could not afford this wonderful, unique opportunity.

Cyndi VaughtEnglish and JournalismWatertown High School No. Years Teaching Total: 18No. Years in Current Position: 4No. Years in Wilson County: 18

What She Said: I, also, am passionate about my students. They are not just people in my class; they are my kids. I love seeing former students outside of school and catching up on where they are now. My current students know I care about them personally, not just about how they are doing in my class.

What They Said: I have personally witnessed her go beyond the call to ensure that a student or group of students have a pleasant experience at Watertown High School, said Jeff Luttrell, Watertown High principal. Her positive attitude, enthusiasm and passion for teaching her students are re-flected on a daily basis by our students, as well as her colleagues.

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Audrey A. BurgerEighth-grade inclusionWinfree Bryant Middle SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 40No. Years in Current Position: 4No. Years in Wilson County: 39

What She Said: Special education teachers are a rare breed. This is my 40th year as oneI rarely miss a day of school. I can count on one hand the days Ive missed in the last 15 years. It is extremely difficult to express my love of children and my profession.

What They Said: When she is in our classrooms, she is a con-stant source of positivity and encouragement to ourselves and our studentsOur students respond well to her instruction, feedback and nurturing, said Winfree Bryant teachers Evie Haddock and Jackie Hoffman. With the help of Mrs. Burger, our students reach their learn-ing goals more efficiently, thus increasing their proficiency.

Barbara Joy ShawAdult Business Education/Information Technology and Social StudiesWilson County Adult High SchoolNo. Years Teaching Total: 25No. Years in Current Position: 6No. Years in Wilson County: 6

What She Said: At the Wilson County Adult High School I have the enjoyment of beginning each new student on the computerMany students do not have the computer skills required for the business or post-secondary institution. In this initial effort, I hope I am instituting a skill they will continue to grow.

What They Said: As a 2015 graduate of the Adult High School and a mother of three children, I sometimes found it hard to concentrate on the task at hand, but Ms. Shaw worked with me individually on numerous occasions and helped me focus so I could graduate, said Staci Rose, former student.

Ann NoredLibraryWilson Central High School No. Years Teaching Total: 10No. Years in Current Position: 13No. Years in Wilson County: 10

What She Said: Being a teacher/library media specialist is a challenging and rewarding career. I get the opportunity to interact with potentially all the students in the school. My goal is to instill a love of lifelong learning in the students in my school.

What They Said: Our library at Wilson Central is a vital part of the school, and Ann Nored is one of the main reasons for that. She is always welcoming to students and faculty alike, said Lanita Harris, Wilson Central English teacher. Several time Ive asked her to work with me and my students on specific research skills, and she has taught lessons willingly and thoroughly.

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Mrs. Holder is a 2005 graduate of CU with a Bachelor of Science in Child Growth and Learning. She is a 7th grade math teacher

at Walter J. Baird Middle School.Learn Whats Possible

Congratulations to Kali Meyer Holder, the 2015 Wilson County

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

VALUE & HONESTY

ALBERT EINSTEIN

TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

W.P., MITCHEL & PAINE BONE

WERE THE FOUNDING PRINCIPLES IN 1927WHEN THE BONE FAMILY OPENED

WILSON COUNTY MOTORS

WE ARE HONORED TO BE A FOUNDINGSUPPORTER OF THE

IT IS THE SUPREME ART OF THE TEACHERTO AWAKEN JOY IN CREATIVE EXPRESSION

AND KNOWLEDGE.

FROM THEIR INDIVIDUAL SCHOOLS!CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS

H Y U N D A I

615-444-5564 615-444-96421310 West Main Street, Lebanon, Tennessee I-40, Exit 236 903 S. Hartmann Drive, Lebanon, Tennessee

WilsonCountyHyundai.com WilsonCountyMotors.com

2014-2015 Teacher of the Year

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