Everyone has had a teacher whose impact can’t be quantified, only felt.
Students of Cora Garner laud her ability to make learning fun, and because of that distinguishing quality, she became one of 15 educators to receive the Humanities Texas 2020 Outstanding Early Career Teaching Award, which recognizes exemplary K–12 Humanities teachers, according to a news release from DeSoto ISD.
Garner’s impact has been immediately felt, although she has only been an educator for three years.
While the pandemic has changed education, Garner has displayed an ability to connect with students, whether through online instruction or in-person instruction, Humanities Texas Senior Programs Officer Sam Moore said in the news release.
“Winning this award is no small feat. Each year, we receive over 500 nominations from qualified educators across the state,” Moore said. “To be one of the 15 educators chosen to receive an award means you cannot just be qualified, you have to be outstanding and Ms. Garner is.”
Students not only vouch for Garner, but say she keeps parents updated on assignments and lessons.
Shelonda Weaver, whose daughter is now taking Garner’s class, praised the teacher in the news release. “She made sure our twins, as freshmen, had all their work setup and gave them guidance," she said. “Now, she is doing the same for our youngest daughter who is entering her freshman year.”
The Desoto ISD Early College High School and Garner will receive a certificate and a monetary award of $5,000 and $1,000, respectively.
“I am thankful for Humanities Texas for recognizing and rewarding teachers like myself who are committed to student achievement and academic excellence even in a virtual setting," Garner said in the release. "I am thankful for all those who supported my endeavors, coached, and empowered me to become a teacher leader in DeSoto ISD.”
