5 stories on Columbus’ Teacher of the Year celebrations
The Muscogee County School District celebrated its annual Teacher of the Year award, starting with 54 nominees from schools across Columbus.
Judges narrowed the pool to 10 semifinalists, then three finalists: Eretha Hamilton, Charles Repass, and Amanda Zarate. Amanda Zarate, a theater teacher at Wynnton Arts Academy, won the award and was praised for fostering students’ confidence and life skills through the arts. Her students and principal highlighted how she teaches communication and self-esteem, and Zarate described how her Army background shapes her teaching philosophy.
During the gala at the Columbus Convention Trade Center, nominees and finalists were recognized for their dedication, and Zarate called attention to the value of arts education and supportive professional communities in schools.
NO. 1: THIS MUSCOGEE COUNTY EDUCATOR IS ONE OF THE FINALISTS TO BE GEORGIA’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR
“Her commitment to student success and innovative approach to learning make her an outstanding representative,” said MCSD superintendent David Lewis. | Published March 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Rice
NO. 2: 54 NOMINEES ARE NARROWED TO 10 SEMIFINALISTS FOR MUSCOGEE COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD
“These educators stood out for their extraordinary impact, creative approaches to teaching and unwavering passion for helping students reach their full potential,” said selected committee member Marquette McKnight. | Published March 11, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Rice
NO. 3: TEACHER OF THE YEAR IN MUSCOGEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT WILL BE ONE OF THESE 3 FINALISTS
“The passion and purpose these teachers bring to the classroom is nothing short of inspiring,” said Muscogee Educational Excellence Foundation chairman Josh Reynolds. | Published April 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Rice
NO. 4: AND THE WINNER OF THE MUSCOGEE COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD IS . . .
A sellout crowd of more than 1,100 people attended the event in the Columbus Convention & Trade Center, where the winner was announced and the 54 nominees were honored. | Published May 2, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Rice
NO. 5: WHY IS SHE MUSCOGEE’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR? WE ASKED HER STUDENTS AND PRINCIPAL
“She’s always there for us,” one of her students said. “We can tell her anything. She understands how we feel.” | Published May 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mark Rice…