Mrs. Heather Carr, the kindergarten through fourth grade visual arts teacher at College Hill Elementary, was recently named as an Arkansas Teacher of the Year Regional Finalist. The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) announced the fourteen state finalist in a press release issued on Tuesday, September 21. Governor Asa Hutchinson and ADE Commissioner Johnny Key will recognize the fourteen finalists on September 28, at 1:30 p.m. at the Arkansas State Capitol. During the ceremony, the four state semi-finalist will be announced. As a regional finalist, Mrs. Carr will receive a cash award in the amount of $1000.
Mrs. Carr received her Bachelor of Science-Interdisciplinary Studies in Early Childhood Education from Texas A & M- Texarkana and joined the Razorback family in August 2008. She received her National Board Certification in 2012.
“I believe it is important for teachers to understand that every student has a unique learning style and should implement strategies to meet the needs of all their students,” commented Mrs. Carr. “I want my students to find learning meaningful and connect to the world around them.”
Mrs. Carr is described by her peers as patient, compassionate, encouraging and uplifting. “Mrs. Carr brings her best self to work each day to serve our students,” stated Dr. Becky Kesler, TASD Superintendent of Schools. “She values a quality education for all students and she finds ways to engage students through art.”