Each year, staff from Dawson County public schools nominate a teacher they feel exemplifies that special "teaching spirit."

At the monthly Dawson County Chamber of Commerce luncheon on April 11 at the Lakeview Center, seven local teachers were presented to attendees and their peers.

"The teachers who were selected are tremendous educators who not only care about the academic growth of their students, but also care about them as individuals," said Dawson County School Superintendent Keith Porter. "They are committed to doing what is best for their children."

Many of the teachers have been at their respective schools since they were opened. They all credit their administrators for being where they are today.

"I have been at Black's Mill since it has opened. Administrators have come and gone. Teachers have come and gone. But all the people I have worked with have helped me become the person I am today," said Felicia Stephens, Black's Mill Elementary Teacher of the Year. "I am so very thankful for that. I work with the best people in the world."

For the principals, the recognition is just as much for the community as it is for the teachers, even though the point is to honor dedicated educators.

"I think that for all of us principals that give these presentations each year, we want so badly for everyone to get to know these special people," said Riverview Elementary Principal Julia Mashburn. "We've brought children through this system. We will be bringing children through this system. We all have an identity. It's so important to honor these special teachers."

Porter said that with their skills, these teachers could be anywhere else if they wanted to be, but that they chose Dawson County.

"I am very grateful for their commitment to the Dawson County School System. Being such outstanding educators, they have options to go to other systems, but they have chosen to remain in Dawson County and serve the children of our community."