During a year in which change and uncertainty could be counted on, one feeling remains constant - our love and appreciation for educators.

Has an educator made a difference in your life this year? Share your story with us!

Join us in celebrating the teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians, counselors, administrators, nurses, assistants, and so many others who help our students learn and thrive, and prepare them for success in school and in life.

"[She] has gracefully balanced face-to-face and remote learning to be able to serve all of her students. She goes above and beyond to make sure each of her students is served, not only as required, but as needed. She works with students before and after school to offer extra support, as well as during the day. It is not uncommon for her to not get a lunch break during the day. She also performs any other duty, as requested, and often volunteers, without hesitation. In addition to all of her work with students, there is also a tremendous amount of paperwork and meetings that go with her job. Every time I have been in a meeting with her, she is always thorough, and it is clear that she has the student's best interests at heart. Mrs. Teeter is always helpful and doesn't complain. Mrs. Teeter is a humble person, who does not work for praise or accolades. She simply does what needs to be done, above and beyond!"

Mr. Simeone, Principal, Cabarrus County:

"The 2020-2021 school year started unprecedented by any year before.  In order to serve the community and families of Cabarrus County, a brand new program choice school was opened at the start of the year.   Cabarrus Virtual Academy was spearheaded by its fearless leader and principal Ken Simeone. Ken has been an exemplary leader for CVA students, parents, and staff.   I, myself, was a brand new teacher to North Carolina (more specifically Cabarrus County) this year.  As enrollment numbers shifted and more parents were opting for a full-time virtual learning platform, my initial position was transferred to CVA.  Ken welcomed me with open arms!  As many of his staff was still adjusting to the idea of fully virtual instruction, he showed nothing but unwavering support.  Ken always made sure he was available to answer any questions either by email, phone, or text.  Not only did he make himself available, but he also showed understanding, compassion, and guidance  No question or concern was too small or unimportant.   When CVA lost one of its own teachers this year to an unexpected death, Ken promptly held a faculty meeting to inform us, offer condolences, and identified support services for the staff and students as they traversed their way through this tragedy.  His unrelenting advocacy for students, families, and staff has set the bar for any future administrator I may work for.  After 13 years of teaching, I can officially say I have found the BEST principal."

Ms. Hsiao, Media Assistant, Union County

"Carolyn is the glue that keeps our school together. She is the most caring, giving, thoughtful, and comforting person, and she is always there for anyone who needs help. Her expertise knows no limits. She is the type of person who follows through and doesn't forget any of the dozens of people who ask her for help hourly. Without her, we would be lost."