Nineteen Warren County educators were honored as its finest Wednesday as the Vicksburg Warren County Chamber of Commerce recognized the teachers of the year.
Bowmar Elementary teacher Carolyn Bradley and Vicksburg High School’s Andrew Hoyt were selected as the elementary and secondary teachers of the year, respectively.
Bradley, a fifth-grade reading and language teacher, was speechless for a moment.
“It is an incredible honor,” Bradley said.
Hoyt, a social studies teacher who teaches economics, sociology and other courses, shared Bradley’s sentiments.
“It’s very exciting. I really appreciate it,” Hoyt said. “This district is filled with excellent teachers, so to be selected is a real honor.”
Both received $1,000 checks from Ameristar Casino, a sponsor of the chamber’s Outstanding Educator program since its inception 25 years ago.
Bowmar Principal Tammy Burris said Bradley has a heart for teaching all students.
“She is awesome because she meets the kids where they are and teaches with all her heart,” Burris said. “She’s very dedicated and really loves the kids.”
Bradley said addressing each student’s individual needs is the focus of her educational philosophy.
“I feel like I really invest in the students and get to know them,” Bradley said. “Each one of them is important to me.”
For Hoyt, his first goal every day is simple.
“Have positive attitudes in the classroom,” he said. “I just really want the kids to enjoy there time in there.”
Buddy Dees, former chamber president, has chaired the awards for the past 25 years. For him, recognizing teachers for what is often a thankless job is important.
“When you’re an educator, it’s the little things, the thanks for doing what they do,” he said.