Jennifer Blake, a dedicated third-grade teacher at Carthage Elementary School, has been honored as the 2024 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes Blake’s outstanding contributions to the field of education and her commitment to making a difference in her students’ lives.
The surprise announcement took place in Blake’s third-grade classroom at Carthage Elementary School. She was surrounded by Moore County Schools Superintendent Dr. Tim Locklair, Moore County Board of Education members, Carthage Elementary School Principal Debbie Warren, the current North Carolina Teacher of the Year Kimberly Jones and Sandhills Regional Teacher of the Year Teena Robinson, as well as colleagues, employees of Moore County Schools, and her delighted family members.
North Carolina Teacher of the Year Kimberly Jones (left), Superintendent Dr. Locklair, Jennifer Blake, Board Chair Levy, and Principal Warren.
Blake’s journey into teaching was inspired by the influential educators she had during her own formative years. These teachers supported her through various challenges, offering guidance and making her feel seen, loved, and capable of success. It was this impactful experience that ignited her passion for teaching and her desire to provide the same support and encouragement to her own students.
Blake stated, “One must love teaching enough to survive it. You have to get excited when those little ‘light bulb’ moments happen. You have to be reflective and willing, not only to make changes but also to embrace mistakes when they happen.”
Blake’s commitment to education was previously recognized on April 27, when she was named the Moore County Schools Teacher of the Year during the district’s annual banquet. On receiving this recognition, she expressed her overwhelming gratitude and the honor she felt to represent her fellow teachers and the teaching community of Moore County.
Superintendent Dr. Tim Locklair commended Ms. Blake’s dedication, stating, “I am so proud of Ms. Blake and honored to be a part of this special recognition that embodies the hard work and dedication Ms. Blake exemplifies in her third-grade classroom and at Carthage Elementary School. Our students and staff are fortunate to have such an excellent and dedicated teacher like Ms. Blake to look up to and represent the Sandhills Region in the quest to become the North Carolina Teacher of the Year.”
Looking ahead, Blake is now one of the nine district winners who will be considered for the title of North Carolina Teacher of the Year by the North Carolina Department of Instruction. Interviews will take place in February 2024, and the winner will be announced in April.
Blake’s dedication and passion for education continue to shine as she represents the Sandhills Region in this prestigious competition, embodying the qualities of an exemplary educator.
Feature photo: Jennifer Blake poses with her third-grade students after being announced as the 2024 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year.
Contributed/Courtesy photos.
