Hayesville Teacher Named One of Three Worldwide Participate Learning Teachers of the Year

HAYESVILLE, N.C. — Hayesville Middle School teacher Erin McCoy was named a Participate Learning Teacher of the Year, one of only three educators recognized worldwide, during the Clay County Board of Education meeting Monday.

McCoy was honored for her work developing globally connected learning experiences through the Global Leaders Initiative at Hayesville Middle School. School officials praised her creativity, dedication and commitment to preparing students for success in an interconnected world.

“Erin’s passion for creating meaningful, globally connected learning experiences has made a tremendous impact on our students,” officials said in a statement. “We are incredibly proud to have her representing Hayesville Middle School, Clay County Schools and our community on the global stage.”

The board also recognized teacher assistants at Hayesville Primary School for their role in implementing a new literacy instructional model for kindergarten and first grade. The assistants — Jennifer Bennett, Lauren Pendley, Alicia Denton, Misty Jefferies, Sierra Graves and Kenzie Nuckolls — were credited with helping drive strong end-of-year results.

Eighty-three percent of kindergarten students and 77% of first-grade students met literacy benchmarks, officials said. Bennett and Pendley were pictured with HPS MTSS Coordinator Delaney Smith; Denton, Jefferies, Graves and Nuckolls were not present for photos.

“Their dedication, teamwork and commitment to our youngest learners have made a tremendous impact,” officials said. “These achievements are a testament to the power of collaboration.”

In other recognitions, Hayesville High School student Ann Gibson, a member of the Class of 2026, spoke about her internship at Hometown Healthcare. Gibson completed more than double the required hours, demonstrating strong work ethic and passion for the healthcare field, officials said.

“Experiences like these provide valuable real-world opportunities and help prepare students for successful futures,” the board noted. “Congratulations, Ann! Your future is bright.”

The board also honored the Clay County Schools Maintenance Team for its ongoing work to keep campuses safe and well-maintained. Pictured were Rocky Neal, Chris Lange and Maintenance Director Steve Lyvers. Adan Sanchez, another team member, was unable to attend.

Finally, Hayesville High School student-athlete Emily Aguilera Garcia was recognized for earning All-Conference honors in soccer.

“Emily’s hard work, dedication and commitment both on and off the field have truly paid off,” officials said.