Caldwell County's top teacher

The basic definition of an educator is one who is trained in teaching. But to those students whose lives are touched in the Caldwell County School system each day, they are heroes.

Some of these individuals who make a difference to not only local students but also the community were honored Tuesday night during the annual Ben Craig Educator of the Year awards dinner at the Cedar Rock Country Club.

The event was an opportunity to recognize the 26 nominees from area schools and name Jamie Lewis this year's award recipient.

Philip Moore, Wachovia Bank community relations manager, presented the award named after Ben Craig, a North Carolina banker who served Wachovia for more than 35 years.

“It is a great honor to be here representing Wachovia, but most of all being in the presence of all of these educators,” Moore said. “I really appreciate what you guys are doing.”

Moore spoke about the efforts Lewis continues to make on a daily basis to provide the best for her students.

“(Lewis) treats each student with respect,” Moore said. “(She) makes every effort to create lessons that are age-appropriate and has learned a great deal in her 16-year tenure.”

Moore presented Lewis with a hand-blown glass apple, as well as a check designated for classroom projects and professional development.

“My heart is beating out of my chest,” Lewis said. “I'm so honored to be here with all of you. I truly believe that God blessed me with wanting to be a teacher when I was a student at William Lenoir (Middle School).”

Lewis, who is nationally board certified, shared her excitement for her chosen profession.

“Middle school kids are awesome!” she said. “I love them.”

Al Bunch, president of Foothills Radio Group, introduced the nominees, who each received a certificate of appreciation. This year's nominees included:

Michele Lechtner, Baton Elementary; Lewis Beane, Caldwell Career Center Middle College; Alice Suddreth, Collettsville; Joye Eberle, Davenport A+; Geba Davenport, Dudley Shoals Elementary; Elizabeth Grogan, Caldwell Early College High; Shannon Greene, Gamewell Elementary; Jacqueline Anderson, Gamewell Middle; Edward Krynak, Gateway; Danna Knox, Granite Falls Elementary; Brandy Cutrell, Granite Falls Middle; Lindsay Scarborough, Happy Valley; H. Ray Suddreth Jr., Hibriten High; Theresa Ames, Horizons; Cathy Goble, Hudson Elementary; Celine Ellison, Hudson Middle; Linda Land, Kings Creek; Cheryl Pritchard, Lower Creek Elementary; Gail Cutts, Oak Hill; Phillip Harkey, Sawmills Elementary; Rose George, South Caldwell High; Melissa Wilcox, Valmead Elementary; Ronnie Woods, West Caldwell High; Kelly Beavers, West Lenoir Elementary; and Joyce Liberstein, Whitnel Elementary.

The keynote speaker of the evening was Dr. David Shockley, Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute executive vice president. Shockley said educators, especially his mother - a school teacher of 34 years - are responsible for the person he is today.

“I am a product of a school teacher,” Shockley said. “I think that deep down all men and women seek to be remembered and have a lasting impact on others.”

Shockley praised the 26 nominees for breaking the cycle of underachievement - something he knows is not an easy task.

“I can honestly say that you have made an impact,” Shockley said. “I truly think you will be remembered.”