Brunswick, GA – Cherie Alston ’15 (B.S., Early Childhood/Special Education) and Brandon Evans ’15 (B.S., Middle Grades Education) are the recipients of $1,000 grants from Georgia Power for classroom supplies during their first year of teaching. Alston teaches 1st grade at Altama Elementary School in Brunswick. Evans teaches 9th and 10th grade English/Language Arts at Brunswick High School.
Both were nominated for the grants by the faculty of the College of Coastal Georgia School of Education and Teacher Preparation.
According to Dr. Michael Hazelkorn, Dean of the School of Education and Teacher Preparation, this is the twelfth year that Georgia Power has awarded the incentive grants in support of the state’s teachers. Academically, nominees must be in the top 25% of their class, employed in a public school, and demonstrate enthusiasm and superior aptitude for teaching, Dr. Hazelkorn noted.
Alston, who graduated cum laude, was recognized as the Outstanding Student (Senior) in Early Childhood/ Special Education at the College’s 2015 Honors Day Program in May. In nominating Alston for the award, Dr. Debra L. Smith, Adjunct Professor of Education, School of Education and Teacher Preparation, wrote, “Cherie embodies the high ideals and expectations of an outstanding future educator…I have never seen a student who was as respected as this young lady in every strata of the classroom community…Her academic skills were excellent, but it was her ability to both ‘think outside the box’ and utilize her creativity that made her distinctive… Cherie is a scholar and an example of what we hold to the highest esteem in the world of education – teachers who are loving and compassionate, industrious and creative, and above all, dedicated to making a difference one child at a time.”
In nominating Evans for the award, Dr. Sarah Hartman, Professor of Education, School of Education wrote, “Brandon exemplifies the true characteristics of what it really means to be a teacher. Brandon leads with a servant’s heart! When Brandon was overwhelmed during school, he found a sense of humor, but never complained. Brandon tries to find ways to positively influence students and change their lives. He helps guide them through life; providing academics, motivation, hope, and for some, survival skills. Brandon is a motivational teacher candidate who exhibits exceptional classroom management and also teaches the students that it’s okay to enjoy learning! He deserves this award 100 times over!”
For Immediate Release
December 10, 2015
Contact: John Cornell
(912) 279 5703