PUTNAM COUNTY, TENN. – The Rotary Club of Cookeville recently recognized teachers across Putnam County with the Excellence in Teaching awards. Through an application and essay process, a teacher from each school in the Putnam County School System was honored for their efforts during the 2022-2023 school year. 

“The Rotary Club is an outstanding community partner with the Putnam County School System,” said PCSS Director Corby King. “We appreciate all of the support and encouragement the club provides to our schools in general, and especially our students and faculty members. The annual Rotary Excellence in Teaching Award is a tremendous honor for our teachers and one that is cherished by all who receive it.” 

Tasha Walker, a seventh and eighth-grade science and biology teacher in the Future Ready Vital program, landed the first place award while Cornerstone teacher Myra Jane Norrod earned second place and Baxter Primary School teacher Kristin Brown Harpe earned the third place award.

“Teaching is not easy and when you have done it for a couple of decades, one might start to question one's effectiveness,” said Walker. “Winning reminded me that I am making a difference, all my hard work is worth it, and others believe in me as I believe in my students.” 

Walker, who has been teaching in the PCSS for six years, said that earning the first-place award was both amazing and shocking all at the same time. 

“It felt fantastic to be on the other side of the desk,” said Walker. “I was noticed, recognized, and valued. In the end, what meant the most is that I represented my VITAL family well because I wouldn't be the teacher I am without the support of my coworkers and administration.”

This is the 20th year the Rotary Club of Cookeville has handed out Excellence in Teaching awards.

“The Rotary Club of Cookeville sees this recognition as our way to highlight Putnam County’s excellent teachers and the great work they do in the classroom each day,” said Rotary President Michael Glass.

“Our Rotary Club understands that our teachers bring great value to our community and make Putnam County an attractive place to raise a family, because parents know their children will get an outstanding education in our schools,” added Phillip Baker, the Excellence in Teaching Coordinator.