Marion County School District recognizes teachers and parents; names district teacher and administrator of the year

The Marion County School District used part of its meeting to recognize teachers and parents of the year from campuses across the district, and to announce district-level awardees who will move forward to state-level considerations.

Principals and site leaders presented teachers of the year and parents of the year for several campuses. Examples presented on the record include Miss Averyt (teacher of the year at East Marion, praised for teaching multiple classes and serving as a tier coach) and Joy Cook (named parent of the year at East Marion, commended for rapid volunteer response). At West Marion campuses, Lori Street was recognized as a site teacher of the year (18 years with the district; cited for algebra instruction and co-curricular leadership) and Chris Crawford was awarded parent of the year for extensive volunteer support at athletic and school events.

The district announced its district teacher of the year as Laurie Street and named Sarah Gatewood as district administrator of the year; presenters noted the district-level winners will be submitted for state-level consideration and accompanying application processes.

Speakers repeatedly emphasized community and parental involvement as critical to student success. The board's representative offered formal congratulations to all honorees and thanked staff and volunteers for their contributions.

The recognitions were presented under acknowledgments and celebrations and drew brief remarks from principals, site leaders and the board. There were no motions or formal votes tied specifically to the recognitions; they were part of the meeting's non-action acknowledgments.