Meet a 2022 School Teacher of the Year: Heather Massey of Avery ES!

Our teachers are amazing, which is why we share the story of a school's Teacher of the Year every week ... please help us celebrate 2022 Avery Elementary School Teacher of the Year Heather Massey!

Avery Elementary School Teacher of the Year Heather Massey is known among students, parents and colleagues as not only an exceptional teacher, but also a role model, cheerleader and caring listener.

Over her 23-year career, she has taught numerous grade levels, as well as Special Education classes. The most important lesson is the same, no matter the child's grades or abilities: they are capable of learning and achieving.

"She has been a constant resource and advocate for our son since kindergarten," one mom shared. "She is an exceptional teacher and has been a positive influence on our life. She exemplifies caring, hard work, dedication and commitment."

Ms. Massey's success is built upon important concepts like collaborating with fellow teachers to develop instructional techniques that will help all students, no matter their abilities, access the same curriculum and master the same learning standards. Ms. Massey, who in addition to her bachelor's in education degree earned a master of science degree in Special Education, also uses creativity to accomplish this. One such example is making a giant number line with painter's tape on her classroom floor and having her students pretend to be numbers to learn how to round numbers.

Another critical element to Ms. Massey's success in teaching is her focus on building positive relationships with students to influence and encourage their success. She does this not only in her classroom, but also through supporting students during after-school extension program tutoring.

In her own words: "When students are connected with their teacher and feel safe to ask for things that help meet their needs, then they will be better equipped to handle the pressures that will come their way and thus improve their overall social and emotional health."

Special thanks to our 2022 Legacy Makers: CCSD Teachers of the Year Celebration's Presenting Sponsors: Cherokee County Educational Foundation, Credit Union of Georgia, Northside Hospital Cherokee and Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Canton.
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