G-C educators select Teachers of the Year

GREENFIELD — Teachers in the Greenfield-Central School Corp. recently honored their peers by selecting a Teacher of the Year at each school.

Each school had its own criteria for nominating teachers but followed the district’s overlying guidelines, which was to “honor a teacher who has exemplified helping his or her students imagine, explore and achieve.”

Each finalist will receive a keepsake to recognize the honor, while the one teacher selected as the overall Teacher of the Year will also receive a $1,500 cash gift.

A video showcasing the Teachers of the Year will be shared with students and staff in each building on the first day of school for the 2022-23 school year.

When nominating their peers, teachers were encouraged to select someone who demonstrates commitment to students and their learning; motivates students to learn and achieve at a high level; demonstrates commitment to the teaching profession, personal growth and continuous learning; and consistently exceeds public expectations among students, parents and administrators.

This year’s Teachers of the Year include Krysha Voelz, Greenfield-Central High School; Lindsey Cary, Greenfield Central Junior High School; Mechelle Smith, Maxwell Intermediate School; Amy Swartz, Greenfield Intermediate School; Jessica Atwood, Eden Elementary School; Jamie Thompson, Harris Elementary School; Kara Batton, J.B. Stephens Elementary School; Annie Wing, Weston Elementary School.

Dr. Harold Olin, superintendent of the Greenfield-Central Schools, said he wasn’t surprised a bit by the list of teachers who were selected.

“They are all fantastic educators who make a profound impact in their respective schools,” he said. “Each of them is driven to make a positive difference in the lives of the students they serve each day, and they work relentlessly to make that happen.”

Olin said it’s important to stop and recognize all the good things happening within the school district, and the annual Teacher of the Year awards are part of that ongoing recognition.

“Having lived through the last two years of the pandemic, I can assert that it is more important now than ever before. Our teachers work hard throughout the year, and the fruit of their efforts establishes a firm foundation for the future of our city, county, state and nation,” he said.

“I believe it is important to share these accolades with our local community so they in turn may share their support for these wonderful educators.”