Tyrrell County Schools is proud to announce the 2024–2025 School Teachers of the Year and Beginning Teachers of the Year!
These four educators have been selected by their peers for their outstanding contributions to their school communities, their commitment to student success, and their leadership both in and beyond the classroom:
Teacher of the Year Honorees
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Glenna Basnight, Tyrrell Elementary School
Ms. Basnight, a 4th-grade teacher, is recognized for her unwavering dedication, consistent classroom expectations, and deep commitment to every student’s success. She forms lasting, positive relationships with her students — both current and former — and is respected and admired across the school for her ability to make learning both engaging and meaningful.
She is described as someone who never gives up on her students, holds high expectations for all, and makes learning come alive through real-life connections and hands-on strategies. One nominator shared, “If my child was in this school, I would want her to be their teacher.”
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Basnight mentors new teachers and student teachers, models professionalism, and lifts up those around her with her kindness, positivity, and passion for teaching.
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Jennifer Brickhouse, Columbia Middle & Columbia Early College High School
Ms. Brickhouse, a Math instructor, is honored for her exceptional leadership, positivity, and her dedication to students and colleagues alike. Known for going above and beyond, she consistently steps in to help wherever she’s needed—whether in the classroom, at faculty meetings, or in school-wide events.
Her colleagues describe her as someone who creates a welcoming environment, uplifts others with encouraging emails, and ensures that students are supported in every way possible. One nominator shared, “She made me feel at home when I got here, and she makes sure the kids are taken care of in every way.”
Students enjoy her class, and peers appreciate her willingness to take on extra responsibilities and help provide additional opportunities for students. Ms. Brickhouse truly embodies the spirit of teamwork, service, and dedication that makes a lasting impact in our schools.
Beginning Teacher of the Year Honorees
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Ann Leary, Tyrrell Elementary School
Mrs. Leary is being recognized for her unwavering dedication, creative teaching approach, and the deep connections she builds with her students. She has consistently stepped out of her comfort zone—most notably in tackling 4th-grade math—and has done so with professionalism, grace, and a smile.
Colleagues describe her as nurturing, eager to learn, and passionate about making learning fun and engaging. She attends trainings with enthusiasm, bringing back new strategies to support her students. One nominator shared, “She takes on any challenge and turns it into an opportunity.”
Mrs. Leary is known for creating a warm, encouraging classroom where her students feel supported and loved. Her patience, positivity, and ability to form lasting relationships with both students and staff make her a valued part of the Tyrrell Elementary team. She truly exemplifies the promise and passion we hope to see in every beginning teacher.
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Ruth Spencer, Columbia Middle & Columbia Early College High School
Ms. Spencer is being recognized for her passion, professionalism, and the engaging presence she brings to the classroom. As a beginning teacher, she has quickly distinguished herself as someone who not only knows her content well but also invests deeply in her students’ success.
Her colleagues describe her as energetic, committed, and always willing to go the extra mile—whether that’s offering individual help, staying after school, or keeping open lines of communication with students and staff. One nominator noted, “The students have learned a lot from her and also enjoy her company!”
When you step into Ms. Spencer’s classroom, you’ll find students who are focused, involved, and clearly enjoying the learning process. Her ability to connect with students while delivering strong instruction makes her a standout member of the Columbia Early College High School team and a deserving Beginning Teacher of the Year honoree.
Each of these educators has demonstrated exemplary professionalism, care, and passion for their craft. They will now move on to participate in interviews with a district panel, which will determine our District Teacher of the Year and District Beginning Teacher of the Year. These winners will be announced at our upcoming End-of-Year Celebration.
We are incredibly proud of these educators and grateful for all they do to inspire, uplift, and lead with heart. Join us in congratulating them!