Congratulations to our beginning teacher of the year, Clyde A. Erwin Middle School seventh grade math teacher Mikayla Wright.
Ms. Wright is the 2023-24 Buncombe County Schools (BCS) winner and a nominee for the statewide award, presented by the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT). On Tuesday, Sept. 26, leadership staff from BCS Central Services and Erwin Middle surprised Ms. Wright in her classroom with balloons, flowers, and praise for her dedication to student growth.
“I am so honored to have received this award,” she said. “It was a huge surprise, but I am grateful for all the appreciation and ‘thank-yous’ from everyone. I absolutely love being a seventh grade teacher and being able to connect with the students I teach. I am just really thankful to have received this award.”
In a letter of recommendation, Erwin Middle Principal Travis Collins said Ms. Wright brought a fresh perspective and an open mind to the school. She has gone above and beyond the requirements of a beginning teacher, enriching student growth opportunities by starting a MathCounts team, tutoring during Community Nights, and filling leadership roles to help every student succeed.
“Mikayla Wright is special; she is one of the best new teachers I have ever seen,” he said. “More than anything, her passion that she brings to the classroom every single day shines through every lesson and every positive relationship she establishes. We are blessed to call her a Warrior.”