Pike County Schools’ Teachers of the Year were honored at the Nov. 12 board of education meeting, including primary school and Pre-K program Teacher of the Year Kelly Browning, elementary school Teacher of the Year Meghan Lee, middle school Teacher of the Year Ali Burch, Ninth Grade Academy Teacher of the Year Katie Washington and high school Teacher of the Year Lee Ewing.
Each school selects their top teacher and they are interviewed by a panel to determine the District Teacher of the Year – who is later surprised in their classroom with the announcement.
LEE EWING
This year’s District Teacher of the Year in Pike County is PCHS teacher and Director of Bands and Choral Ensembles, Lee Ewing. He has taught in Pike County for nine years and overall for 14 years. His wife, Diana Ewing also earned the Teacher of the Year honor this year at Moreland Elementary School in Coweta County. They have two daughters, Emmalee and Evelyn.
“Our District Teacher of the Year honor goes to Lee Ewing who is truly deserving but so humble. When we told him, he said, ‘You know, I really don’t deserve this honor, I’m not even the best teacher in my household!’ But he really is an amazing mentor who works to uplift those around him and I don’t know how he does it,” said PCHS principal Kevin Huffstetler, who marveled at the way he can listen to 30 kids playing at the same time and know exactly who is off key – then stop the band, make the correction and have everyone on the same note again.
Several students spoke to school board members about his impact on them. Erin Levin said she considered him to be family … like a father.
“He is the first person I see every morning. He knows when I haven’t eaten or gotten enough sleep. He is the one teacher who has gotten me to open up and he listens to every single one of his students. I know he treats every single one as if we are his own,” she said. “He teaches in a way that benefits every single person in the room and he prioritizes our needs over everything else. I don’t know how he does it all so effortlessly.”
Brendon Weaver, a 2024 PCHS graduate, said he was drum major under Ewing for three years and he motivated him to become a leader.
“I’ve never seen him angry or frustrated with someone,” said Brendon. “Mr. Ewing teaches marching band, AP Music Theory, jazz band and directs and takes part in plays, concerts and all of the after school time that goes along with that. He shows up every single time,” said Brendan. “He asks us if we are okay, notices the small things, and just genuinely cares.”
KELLY BROWNING
Pike County Primary School principal April Teal-Phagan announced Kelly Browning as the Teacher of the Year for pre-K and the primary school. Browning has taught school for a total of 22 years and she is married to Chris and they have two kids and two fur babies.
“I John 3:28 says, ‘Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.’ This verse sums up Kelly Browning perfectly. Kelly has a true servant’s heart and leads quietly and humbly. I taught beside Kelly for many years and never heard her raise her voice, even on the most challenging days. She is so kind and patient with her students (and colleagues). She works hard behind the scenes because she would never want recognition, only what’s best for others,” said April. “Kelly is a true warrior. She battled breast cancer a few years ago, but rarely missed school, never complained, and always kept a smile on her face. Kelly is an amazing wife and mom – her family always comes first. Kelly is so deserving of this honor and so much more! She is extremely talented yet humble. She is funny without being sarcastic or demeaning. She is always calm and steady. Over the years, she has taught some of our most challenging students. She always sees the best in them and will not allow anything to be a barrier to their success.”
MEGHAN LEE
Pike County Elementary School principal Alison Peabody said Meghan Lee represents everything educators should strive toward. She noted that Meghan has helped transformed the school with her positivity and in other ways as she partnered with Home Depot to improve the school’s playgrounds as well as organizing a project to repaint the student restrooms with bright and colorful, uplifting messages.
“Each day, Meghan brings warmth, patience, and creativity to her classroom, making learning engaging and accessible for every student. Known for going above and beyond, Meghan is always thinking of new ways to inspire her students, meeting them where they are and helping them grow. Her belief in the potential of each child shines through in everything she does, whether it’s designing interactive lessons or working one-on-one with a student who needs extra support,” said Peabody. “Her colleagues describe her as both a team player and a natural leader. She’s quick to lend a helping hand, offer valuable insights, and lift others up. Meghan’s positive energy and dedication inspire not only her students but everyone fortunate enough to work with her. She’s the kind of teacher who makes everyone feel seen and supported, and her commitment reminds us of the impact one person can have on an entire school community.”
ALI BURCH
Pike County Middle School principal Michael Tate said last year, Ali Burch not only taught eighth grade but also served as athletic director, coached the softball and basketball teams and led students in their Literacy Days competition.
“Ali is a kid magnet whose personality hooks and inspires students in all settings. Her relationships with students far outlast the short time they are in her class or on her team,” said Michael. “Ali served as my athletic director and was a vital support and resource to me through my first year. Her efforts led to a more organized athletic department and better opportunities and experiences for both our coaches and student athletes. Though Ali is taking a short stint out of our district to gain administrative experience, I know her heart for Pike will bring her back to support this community in the future.”
KATIE WASHINGTON
Ninth Grade Academy principal Lindsay Busby noted that Katie Washington has taught elementary school and high school math in a total of three school districts. In Pike County, she is the high school cheer coach for football and basketball and teaches math while her husband Chris teaches math at the high school. They have three children, including Isaac, Wyatt and Hadley.
“She is a fantastic teacher of ninth grade students and the way she organizes their materials is so adorably elementary school and really brings something special to her classroom,” said Lindsay. “Last year, she helped to lead the Algebra team as they navigated new state standards, and ultimately, our school was identified as a ‘Math Leader’ school based on our growth in Algebra Milestones EOC scores. She has completed our Aspiring Leaders cohort and was a district wide Treasure Hunt winner several years ago. Katie is calm, organized, and consistent. I know that any student I put in her class, regardless of readiness level or personality style, will feel valued and learn a great deal from her. She is a great asset to our school and our district!”
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