She's kind of a big deal.

In teacher-world there's this big award called "Teacher of the Year". I'm pretty sure most awards in the world give presents or gifts. Like I think if you win a Grammy you get a big trophy and lots of free designer stuff. And if you win the SEC championship I think your school wins lots of dollars and you get a free t-shirt and a cap and tons of parties.

In teacher-world "Teacher of the Year" means you win about five dollars and a slice of cake and then you get to do things like attend extra meetings, fill out tons of paperwork to apply for "DISTRICT Teacher of the Year" and you're automatically in charge of raising money for United Way.

You don't get much.But who wins "Teacher of the Year" says a lot about what the faculty values.
Because the award is chosen by teachers.

And this year, Leaphart Elementary gave the honor to my friend, Sally.

So, that means the teachers at Leaphart value:

1. Authenticity
2. Someone who likes children.
3. Someone who makes children feel known and loved.
4. Sincerity
5. Thinking
6. Meaningful instruction
7. Professional development
8. Someone who emphasizes the why
9. What really matters
10. Collaboration and encouragement

It was a big time honor to hug her neck along with her family, friends, and co-workers the day she won "Teacher of the Year".

Because she's kind of a big deal.

I love you, Sally!