In a county full of outstanding teachers, it's truly a special honor to be named Educator of the Year for Franklin County Schools and Russellville City Schools.
Each year, two educators receive that honor at the annual Franklin County Partnership Awards Banquet, held March 7th at the A.W. Todd Centre.
This year's recipients were Kamri Fleming for Franklin County Schools and Tanya Cleveland for Russellville City Schools.
Fleming, a Tharptown High School alum, teaches special education and coaches basketball and volleyball at her alma mater.
Fleming is a teacher who, each day, goes beyond just working with her students in the classroom. For example, with her help, many of her students were able to enjoy getting dressed up and attending Prom with their classmates.
She was instrumental in organizing the first Franklin County Special Olympics last year. Her vision for Tharptown athletics goes beyond just wins and losses this year for her teams. She's laying the groundwork to improve these programs for years to come.
“Kamri does a great job with her students. She is a great teacher with a bright future,” said Franklin County Superintendent of Education Greg Hamilton.
“Her work in putting together the special need games for Franklin County students is one example. I'm happy to see Kamri honored,” he added.
For Tanya Cleveland, a teacher at Russellville Elementary School, there's nothing 'cookie cutter' about education, as she works each day to tailor her teaching style to meet the unique needs of each student.
Her peers describe Cleveland's teaching methods as 'innovative and creative,' where her students are engaged and inspired to learn. She's spent many hours providing additional support for students who are struggling academically.
“She's amazing and very deserving of this award,” said RCS Superintendent Heath Grimes. “Ms. Cleveland is a great teacher and I, her fellow teachers and Russellville City Schools are extremely proud for her.”
Commenting on this story has been disabled.
