Posted by JOSH FLORY on 2/19/2020
Educators were in the spotlight on Tuesday as Knox County Schools gathered to celebrate its Teachers of the Year.
Nearly 200 teachers were honored during a banquet at the Knoxville Convention Center, in an event that included remarks from Superintendent Bob Thomas and Knox County Juvenile Court Judge Tim Irwin.
The event also highlighted the three district-wide Teachers of the Year. To see video profiles of those winners, click on the links below:
Elementary
Courtney Payne, Bonny Kate Elementary
Payne is a 4th-grade math teacher who believes an important part of growth is giving students space to struggle with a problem. Using manipulatives and modeling, she helps students move from inefficient thinking to efficient thinking.
Middle
Lunsford is a chorus teacher who is committed to building community among her students, and urging them to pursue big dreams. Her students are able to learn a wide variety of instruments, including guitars, ukuleles, drums and harmonicas.
High
Clark teaches Algebra 1 and works to provide a classroom environment where students feel safe to make mistakes and take ownership of their learning. He makes a point of greeting every student, every day when they come into the classroom, and has worked to create a welcoming environment for English Language Learners.
