INDEPENDENCE — Grayson County teachers took center stage during a reception and recognition held March 6 to honor teachers of the year at each school and one overall winner.
Division Superintendent Kelly Wilmore had words of praise for the teachers.
“We are blessed to have great teachers in Grayson County,” he said “Grayson has one of the best school systems in the state.”
Susie Funk, assistant superintendent, also had kind words for the teachers’ dedication and hard work. “We have some great educators in Grayson County.”
Each principal also had words of praise for their teachers.
Teachers honored as 2022-2023 teachers of the year at the different schools included: Brett Phipps, Independence Middle School; Marisa Westberry, Fairview Elementary School; Patricia Hampton, Fries School; Julianne Jones, Grayson County High School; Stacey Halsey, Grayson Highlands School; Linda Burnette, Independence Elementary School and Tammy Hawks, nursing teacher of the year at the GCHS Career and Technical Education Center.
Hawks was also selected as the division winner. She is now in competition for the Region 7 title. Winning would advance her to compete as the State of Virginia teacher of the year.
Members of the Grayson County School Board also attended the reception and praised the teachers. They included Board Chairman Diane Haynes, Vice Chairman Fred Weatherman, Randy Shinault, Chris Anders and Rick Sage.
Donors were also thanked for their support. They included Skyline National Bank, Independence; Real Performance Machinery, Independence; Brad Hawks Financial Services, Galax; Farm Bureau of Independence, E. Liddle; and Adams Jewelry, Galax.
Special thanks was also extended to Kim Moxley and her culinary class for preparing the food for the reception.
