HAYESVILLE, N.C – Hayesville High School Teacher Bobbie Jones received the Clay County District Teacher of the Year honor in the June 2020 board meeting.

A third-party group selected Jones as District Teacher of the Year after a thorough interview process. She will go on to represent CCS in the regional competition.

“Thank you…it was exciting sharing my journey with that group, and I hope Hayesville can win. I want to be the State Teacher of the Year,” expressed an enthused Jones.

She also spoke about her passion for CCS, calling it an “amazing and educational experience.” Before joining the CCS faculty, Jones was unfamiliar with the area and now desires to put Hayesville on the map.

Jones receiving her award.

If chosen as one of the nine regional teachers, Jones would go on to the state competition.

For State Teacher of the Year, competitors will undergo several screening activities from a committee consisting of professional educators as well as business and community leaders. The chosen teacher will have the opportunity to travel and speak on education and teaching methods.

“On behalf of the school system, congratulations, and we know that you’re going to do great!” stated Superintendent Dale Cole.

Each member of the board expressed their thanks for all Jones’s hard work as well.

Jessica Hughes received Hayesville Elementary Teacher of the Year. Hayesville Middle School Teacher of the Year went to Amanda Gaddis. Jones earned the Hayesville High School Teacher of the Year.

Since starting the program in 1970, three North Carolina State Teachers of the Year became National Teachers of the Year, four became finalists, and one was inducted into the National Teachers’ Hall of Fame.