Jennifer Atkinson new Teacher of the Year

High school's Jennifer Atkinson announced as Wilkes County's new Teacher of the Year

Wilkes County's Teachers of the Year were honored at a reception Monday night, including (l-r) Katy Meech of W-WMS; Nicole Smith of W-WPS; system-wide Teacher of the Year Jennifer Atkinson of WWCHS; and Jennifer Holton of W-WES.
Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School science teacher Jennifer Atkinson has been chosen as the Wilkes County Teacher of the Year for 2011.



As the high school's choice for its Teacher of the Year, Atkinson was recognized at the Monday night reception along with the W-W Primary School's Teacher of the Year Nicole Smith, the elementary school's Teacher of the Year Jennifer Holton, and the middle school's Teacher of the Year Katy Meech.

Calling Atkinson "a very valuable part of our science staff," Principal Steve Echols said that she has the highest of expectations for all her students. "She does a great job teaching biology and human anatomy classes, and her students are ready for college when they finish."

Coming from a family of educators, Echols said, Atkinson has constantly challenged her students during her six years at the high school. In addition, she has revived the traditional Homecoming Dance and serves as advisor to the Key Club, along with many other after-school activities. "She has been willing to do anything that needed to be done, and has become a vital part of our school."

Primary school Principal Florence Sandifer praised her school's candidate, Nicole Smith, a thirdgrade teacher. "What makes her exceptional is her gift for making children feel that they are the smartest, greatest kids on the planet. No one could love a child better - it's a gift that comes from within."

"Jennifer Holton is an exceptional classroom teacher," elementary school Principal Wanda Jenkins said. "She's the most balanced person I've seen as a teacher, mother, and wife, and her teaching is a gift from God."

"In only her eighth year teaching, Katy Meech has been an outstanding social studies teacher," middle school Principal Bill Pendrey said. "She has done an excellent job teaching our students, and we're very proud to have her as our school's Teacher of the Year."

Each school winner received an engraved plaque and a cash award. As system-wide winner, Atkinson received an additional cash award, and her name is added to the systemwide Teacher of the Year plaque on display at the board office. As Wilkes County's Teacher of the Year, she will represent the county in the state Teacher of the Year 2011 competition and will be honored at a state banquet in the spring.