A+ educators

What do you get when you take three Graham County teachers, add third and fourth grade students, and End of Grade Standardized Tests for 2023?

You get three teachers who are recognized by the state of North Carolina for being in the top 25 percent of all third- and fourth-grade math and reading teachers across the entire state in student growth.

Fourth-grade teachers Teresa Moody and Keilah Stewart were recognized as leaders in the state with their student’s growth in math. Third-grade reading teacher Brandy Carpenter was recognized for her students’ growth in reading.

These veteran teachers are quick to tell you that it takes a team of teachers to achieve this level of success. It also takes students with a willingness to learn and parents who support the teachers, their children and the school system. It truly takes a village.

Moody graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in elementary education and a minor in speech communication. She is certified to teach grades K-6. She has taught at Robbinsville Elementary for 28 years.

“This is just a great recognition for the fourth-grade students and math staff,” Moody said.

She is currently teaching fifth grade at Robbinsville Elementary School.

Stewart is a graduate of Western Governors School with a degree in interdisciplinary studies. She is certified to teach grades K-8 and has with Graham County Schools for 11 years. Before becoming a teacher, Stewart substituted and took on other jobs at the school.

“I truly see teaching as a mission field,” said Stewart. “All good things start with the Lord, followed by love and then comes learning. Teachers lead and guide, but it also takes willing students who show effort to make the school year successful.”

Stewart continues to teach fourth grade this school year.

Brandy Carpenter attended Western Carolina University and received her degree in elementary education. She also holds master’s degrees in elementary education and administration, and a reading certification for grades K-12. This is Carpenter’s 14th year in the classroom.

“Every child deserves a champion – someone who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be,” Carpenter said. “My hope is to be that champion for my students”.

Superintendent Angie Knight is proud of not only these three outstanding leaders, but all the other teachers that work together to make Graham County Schools a success.

“I would like to acknowledge all of our professional educators that have high standards for student performance and work hard to achieve great things for our school and our community,” Knight added.