News Summary
In Asheville, educators from western North Carolina were honored during a baseball game held by the Asheville Tourists. The event recognized nominees of the ‘Thanks to Teachers’ program, which acknowledges exceptional educators for their dedication. Nominees received tickets and gifts as appreciation. Notable speakers included teachers reflecting on their careers and contributions. Community involvement was also evident, with more educators recognized at a recent luncheon. This initiative highlights North Carolina’s commitment to honoring outstanding educators and enhancing community engagement in education.
Asheville – On Wednesday night, educators from western North Carolina received heartfelt recognition during a special game held by the Asheville Tourists baseball team. The event celebrated nominees for the “Thanks to Teachers” program, an initiative that honors exceptional educators for the 2024-25 school year.
Each nominee was invited to the game, where they were presented with a complimentary ticket and a special gift as a token of appreciation for their hard work and dedication. This year’s program, which is set to restart in the fall of 2025, aims to highlight the impact that teachers have on their students and the community at large.
One notable nominee, Vicky Allen from Asheville Middle School, expressed her deep appreciation for being nominated by one of her students. She reflected on the significance of being acknowledged for her teaching efforts and noted that the experience would be cherished forever.
In a related segment of the night, longtime English instructor Tonya White from Erwin High School offered insights into her 30-year teaching career as she prepares for retirement. White discussed her enduring passion for teaching and how the demographics and needs of the student population have evolved during her tenure. She emphasized the increasing diversity in her classroom and the tremendous growth she has observed in her students.
Clarence Ingle, a parent in the community, nominated Tonya White, commending her significant contributions to the Erwin High School community. Students and alumni alike have praised White for the emotional support she provides along with her impactful teaching style. One student reflected on how White helped him enhance his writing skills and fostered a safe emotional environment in her classroom.
Even after retiring, Tonya White hopes to remain involved in education by engaging in substitute teaching, driven by her enduring love for working with students.
The celebration of educators didn’t end there; over 60 teachers were recognized earlier in the week at a luncheon hosted by the North Carolina Education Lottery, featuring the “Educator of the Week” award. During this event, educators received crystal apples, lottery-themed merchandise, and opportunities to win gift cards, all aimed at celebrating their contributions to the community.
The “Thanks to Teachers” program, along with related initiatives, reflects North Carolina’s ongoing commitment to spotlight outstanding educators. These efforts not only recognize exceptional teaching but also promote community engagement and support for educational systems within the state.
As the event concluded, the Asheville Tourists solidified their role not just as a sports team, but as valuable contributors to the educational landscape in western North Carolina, demonstrating appreciation for the individuals who shape and inspire future generations.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Thanks to Teachers Recognition
- ABC3340: Tonya White – Teacher of the Week
- North Carolina Lottery: Honoring Standout Teachers
- Fox Carolina: Buncombe County Schools Announcement
- WLOS: Vicky Allen – Thanks to Teachers
- Wikipedia: Education in North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
