Our teachers are amazing, which is why we share the story of a school’s Teacher of the Year every week ... please help us celebrate 2021 Woodstock Elementary School Teacher of the Year Laurie McArthur! 

Woodstock Elementary School 2021 Teacher of the Year Laurie McArthur decided in elementary school that she would grow up to be an elementary school teacher.

And not just an elementary school teacher, but a teacher in the same school district where she was learning: the Cherokee County School District.

“I was influenced by teachers who built a relationship with me, saw my potential and believed in me,” said Ms. McArthur, now in her 10th year as a Special Education teacher.  “I strongly believe that contributing time and developing relationships with students builds the foundation for academic achievement.”

Ms. McArthur accomplishes this through engaging lessons in her classroom that build self-esteem and meet individual student needs.  She does this beyond her classroom walls by participating in her school’s Check In/Check Out mentor program, which is part of the #CCSDCares initiative.  Through the program, she mentors a struggling student, encourages success and serves as a designated trusted adult within the school that the student can depend on. 

“Laurie serves as the ‘go-to’ teacher for many of our students that need a mentor, support system and someone to check in with,” a colleague shared.  “She constantly works with students by setting goals and pushing them to achieve them.  She is the type of educator and colleague we all hope to work alongside.” 

In her own words: “Relationships and trust are key to successful learning!  Students must feel loved and appreciated before they can learn.”

Special thanks to our 2021 Legacy Makers: CCSD Teachers of the Year Celebration's Presenting Sponsors: Cherokee County Educational Foundation, Credit Union of Georgia, Northside Hospital Cherokee and Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Canton. 
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