Teacher of the Year Program
2024-2025 Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year
Pictured on left is the 2024-2025 Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Bridget Hill, a third-grade teacher at Hartwell Elementary School, alongside Superintendent Jennifer Carter, on right, after the district's Convocation on July 29, 2024.
The Hart County Charter System announced recently that Mrs. Bridget Hill, a third-grade teacher at Hartwell Elementary School, is the 2024-2025 System Teacher of the Year.
The announcement was made at the district's Convocation on July 29, which gathers employees across the district prior to the beginning of the school year.
“Mrs. Hill’s commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment is evident in everyday interactions with students. She is a firm believer in adapting teaching styles to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring that differentiated instruction is at the forefront of her educational philosophy. This approach guarantees that every student, regardless of learning style or ability, has the opportunity to succeed,” Superintendent Jennifer Carter said. “I am so proud to have Mrs. Hill represent our district as this year’s Hart County Charter System Teacher of the year.”
Mrs. Hill has more than 10 years of experience in elementary education. She holds an Associate’s degree in Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Emmanuel College, a Master of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction both from Piedmont College, and her Gifted Certification as well. Mrs. Hill has taken on various leadership roles, including grade-level team leader and After School Director, and is currently working on the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Speaking (LETRS) certification, demonstrating a continuous pursuit of professional development and excellence.
“It is such an honor to be chosen to represent my school and our district as Teacher of the Year. My heart is full of gratitude and joy to serve and support our students and community,” Mrs. Hill said. “Last school year, one of my students typed this message for me on her Chromebook, and I’d like to share it in her exact words: ‘Dear Mrs. Hill work is hard but someone named Colossian once said ‘whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for human masters since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.’ I quoted this student because she was unaware that this was the verse I wrote on an index card in pink and green marker and placed it on the wall of my very first classroom ten years ago. That verse remains a constant reminder to me that I am a champion of children.”
One of the most notable contributions Mrs. Hill has made to our school community is the establishment of the Foreign Affairs Club, part of the Education Pathway, at Hartwell Elementary. This club, initiated by Mrs. Hill, aims to foster a sense of community and diversity by helping students learn about various cultures. Each month, the club explores a different country, often represented within our school or community. Through food, crafts, songs, and dances, students gain a deeper appreciation for global cultures.
“In the words of the late inspirational teacher, Ms. Rita Pierson, ‘Every child deserves a champion - an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.’ I am proud to be a champion of children in Hart County, and to be connected to a wonderful community of caring educators, parents, families, and community partners,” Mrs. Hill said.
Mrs. Britney Morrison, the 2023-2024 Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year, pictured right, poses for a photo at Convocation alongside Superintendent Jennifer Carter, pictured left.
The Hart County Charter System is excited to announce Mrs. Britney Morrison is the 2023-2024 System Teacher of the Year.
The announcement was made at the district's Convocation on July 26, which gathers employees across the district prior to the beginning of the school year.
"The 2023-2024 Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year epitomizes what it means to be a teacher leader. Mrs. Morrison brings passion, energy, and a friendly smile to the classroom every day. She is a true champion for students," Superintendent Jennifer Carter said. "The panel of judges selecting our system teacher of the year stated that Mrs. Morrison displays confidence and is an all-around effective teacher.”
Mrs. Morrison is currently a fifth-grade teacher at Hartwell Elementary School. Mrs. Morrison graduated with honors (Magna Cum Laude) and earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Emmanuel College. She also earned her Master of Arts in Elementary Education, and Education Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, from Piedmont University in Demorest, Georgia.
“As my name was called, I immediately began to think about the goodness of God. I am forever thankful for His goodness and His favor upon my life. I am nothing without Him. Secondly, I began to think about the many amazing people who have impacted my life and have grown me as an individual, educator, and leader. To be named the Hart County Charter System teacher of the year, is a moment I will forever have engraved within my heart. I love being a part of an amazing school and school system,” Mrs. Morrison said. “To all of my educators and leaders within Hart County, never forget your why. You have the opportunity each day to impact the lives of so many. We are the true superheroes! I pray that this is one of the best years for the Hart County Charter System.”
Mrs. Morrison has been teaching for nine years and has taught first grade, fourth grade, and special education. Mrs. Morrison’s goal is to create a fun, engaging, and safe environment that is conducive to learning. Mrs. Morrison has a passionate and energetic personality as well as a positive mindset which creates a welcoming environment for all. Mrs. Morrison’s teaching philosophy is that no students are the same, but all students are capable of learning. It is her belief that building relationships amongst students and their families is the key to a successful learning environment. She strongly believes that when students and parents know that you genuinely care, they will put the effort into what is asked for them to do.
Mrs. Morrison is married to Rakolya Morrison, and they have two children, Khloe and Kace. She enjoys spending time with God and her family.
Since being selected as the Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Morrison will now apply to be the Georgia Teacher of the Year.
Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year David Longworth, right, poses for a photo with Superintendent Jennifer Carter, left.
The Hart County Charter System is excited to announce Mr. David Longworth is the 2022-2023 System Teacher of the Year.
The announcement was made at the district's Convocation on July 27, which gathers employees across the district prior to the beginning of the school year.
"The 2022-2023 Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year exemplifies servant leadership. Mr. Longworth goes above and beyond the call of duty each day to ensure student success," Superintendent Jennifer Carter said. "The panel of judges selecting our system teacher of the year stated that Mr. Longworth displays confidence, poise, a passion for developing all students, and an ability to discuss, in detail, complex contemporary issues in education.”
Mr. Longworth is a fifth-grade math, science, and social studies teacher at Hartwell Elementary School. Mr. Longworth graduated with honors (Magna Cum Laude) and earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix, Arizona. He also earned his Master of Arts in Elementary Education, and Education Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, from Piedmont University in Demorest, Georgia. He has been teaching for seven years and has taught second, fourth, and third grades. In addition to his teaching experience, Mr. Longworth has served in the U.S. Army, held multiple coaching positions, and has served his church as a Youth Leader.
Mr. Longworth’s goal is to create a fun and safe environment that is conducive to learning. In his free time, he loves to spend time with his family, coaching, working out, and attending college football games. Mr. Longworth's teaching philosophy is that all students are capable of learning no matter what learning level they’re on. He believes it is the educator’s job to create a safe haven for learning, accommodate the learning needs of the student, differentiate, and modify any instruction to ensure that the student’s learning needs are being met.
Since being selected as the Hart County Charter System Teacher of the Year, Mr. Longworth will now apply to be the Georgia Teacher of the Year.
The Hart County Charter System is excited to announce its System Teacher of the Year, Mr. Mike Carey.
A 22-year teaching veteran in the Construction trades, HVAC, Electrical, Carpentry, and Plumbing, Carey is currently a Construction teacher at Hart County High School and a Welding instructor. Students have an opportunity to earn college credit through his classes.
“First of all, Mike Carey is a top notch person. He is first class in all that he does. He has an incredible work ethic and he cares about quality work. Those traits are hard to find. He wants his students to succeed in life. He doesn't look at teaching as a job, he looks at it like he is giving back to our community,” Superintendent Jay Floyd said.
Carey is a Hartwell native and attended Hart County Schools growing up. He also attended the University of Georgia, Athens Technical College, North Georgia Technical College and served in the United States Navy/Marine Corps.
“The motivation that inspires me to teach I would have to say is the ability to help a student to succeed in life. To be able to guide a young person towards a career that will help him do well for himself or family. It’s hard to beat that,” Carey said.
Carey said being selected as the System Teacher of the Year is leaving him feeling “overwhelmed.” In 2009, he was chosen by the STAR student to be the STAR teacher, but said he was “shocked” to learn he was the System Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made in front of his peers at Convocation, which gathers every employee in the school system before the new year begins.
“Only thing I can say is that I’m overwhelmed and blessed,” Carey said. “I’ve just tried to do my job the best I know how and to treat my students like they were my own.”
Around the Hart College and Career Academy, Carey’s students are known as “Coach Carey’s Boys/Girls” and administrators have taken note of the strong relationships he cultivates with his students.
“Relationships with students are important in education and Mr. Carey does an excellent job with that. He has helped so many students not only in his classroom but outside as well. His work in his classroom as well as Welding through ATC (Athens Technical College) is impacting our community,” Hart County High School Principal Kevin Gaines said.
Carey said there are many times when he is proud of current or former students. He often hears from many of them after they graduate.
“They will call, text or contact me through social media about where they are working, a promotion they have received or even a call just to see ‘How you doing coach?’,” Carey said.
Six of his students recently received their technical college certification in welding through the Hart College and Career Academy, earning them college credit, and multiple former students of his have landed jobs with local industries.
"Mike Carey has the ability to connect and build relationships as good as anyone. I've never met a student that didn't approach him with eye contact and a strong handshake. He teaches our students employability and soft skills that prepare them for a successful future and at the end of the day, our students respect that about Mike. They would run through a brick wall for him,” Hart College and Career Academy CEO Brooks Mewborn said.
Mike’s wife, Allisa Carey, served as the Hart County School System Lead Nurse for 25 years before retiring two years ago. Carey also has an adult son and daughter who followed similar career paths to Carey’s.
“January 2021, the Georgia District 2 Public Health asked my wife to come out of retirement to assist with the COVID-19 vaccinations. Her response was ‘Yes’ without any hesitation,” Carey said. My Son Joshua Carey is an Industrial Engineer and works in Duluth, Georgia. He was one of my ‘Construction Boys.’ Michaela Carey, my daughter, is also an educator in Forsyth, Georgia. I’ve been blessed to have both my son and daughter to follow in a career that is related to mine.”
Outside of school, Carey’s biggest hobby is his horses. His family has a horse and cattle farm.
“We have been raising, showing and riding horses for over 25 years. This passion for horses is also shared by my daughter where not only she is an educator but also an equestrian riding instructor,” Carey said.
All-in-all, Carey said he’s been blessed over the years.
“To have a career in the same town you’re born/raised and become an educator at the same school I attended? Well I’ve come full circle. I’ve only taught at Hart County and had some of the best coworkers you could ask for. As for my students, heck when you spend up to 4 years with them 5 day a week, 10 months out of the year they become yours and you want the best life can offer for them. I’ve had tremendous support from family, friends and students. As for my teaching, credit has to go to God for leading and opening doors for me,” Carey said.
The Hart County Charter System is thrilled to announce a new class of Teachers of the Year for 2021-2022. Marc Roberts, an 8th grade math teacher with 22 years of teaching experience, was named Hart County Middle School's Teacher of the Year. For Hart County High School, Construction teacher and ATC Welding instructor Mike Carey, who has 22 years of teaching experience, was named Teacher of the Year. ESOL teacher Christina Weir, who has 10 years of teaching experience, was named Teacher of the Year for North Hart Elementary. Hartwell Elementary Special Education teacher Sharon Davis, a 33-year teaching veteran, was named their school's Teacher of the Year. Second-grade teacher Crystal Kearns, who has been teaching for 23 years, was named South Hart Elementary's Teacher of the Year.
These five teachers will move on to an interview process, and a system Teacher of the Year will be named at Convocation on July 28 at the Fine Arts Center.
In order to be eligible for Teacher of the Year recognition, teachers are nominated and voted upon their peers and principal, and should be a certified classroom teacher in public pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, including special education, physical education, art, music, media specialists and ROTC teachers. They also are teachers who inspire students, are dedicated and skilled in active teaching, play an active role in the community and are respected by both students and their parents.
Hart County Charter System is excited to announced the new class of Teachers of the Year for the 2020-2021 school year!
Jenny Martin, a special education teacher, has been named the Teacher of the Year for Hartwell Elementary School. Emilee Patrick, a 5th grade English and Language Arts teacher, has been named Teacher of the Year for North Hart Elementary School. Kathleen Teel, a Tier Intervention teacher for RTI/MTSS, has been named Teacher of the Year for South Hart Elementary School. Earl Fouch, a 6th grade math teacher, has been named Teacher of the Year for Hart County Middle School. Christie Simpson, a science teacher, has been named Teacher of the Year for Hart County High School.
These five teachers will move on to an interview process with judges from various counties within the state, on November 4, and a Teacher of the Year for the county school system will then be named at a Teacher of the Year luncheon on November 15.
In order to be eligible for Teacher of the Year recognition, teachers are nominated and voted upon their peers and principal, and should be a certified classroom teacher in public pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, including special education, physical education, art, music, media specialists and ROTC teachers. They also are teachers who inspire students, are dedicated and skilled in active teaching, play an active role in the community and are respected by both students and their parents.
Update: On November 15, Hart County High School Teacher of the Year Christie Simpson was named as the district-wide Teacher of the Year in Hart County! She will now move on to submit an application to be a nominee for Georgia’s Overall Teacher of the Year. Congratulations, Mrs. Simpson!
