North Brooks Elementary School Principal Reggie Lee recently announced Ashley Lee, MTSS Coordinator and Interventionist for grades K-5, had been selected to represent NBES as the 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year. An eleven year veteran teacher, Mrs. Lee graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, and Master of Science in Early Childhood Education. She holds certifications in ESOL, Gifted, Dyslexia, Montessori Certified, and is Reading Endorsed. She is currently completing the requirements for MTSS endorsement.
Inspired by her 3rd grade teacher to become a teacher herself, Lee stated, “Mrs. Cross was passionate about teaching and always had different ways for us to be engaged in learning. Today, I am an avid reader because of what she taught and modeled in her class. Her positive influence, as well as some other excellent teachers, made my school experience a remarkable one and led me to become an educator.” Believing that education is an evolving field, with new research, technologies, and pedagogical approaches emerging constantly, Lee shared that staying updated with the latest educational trends and incorporating them into teaching practices can be challenging. However, those challenges do not outweigh witnessing students grow, develop, and achieve their goals and this is something that Lee finds incredibly rewarding. “I love to watch the "aha" moments when students grasp new concepts, overcome challenges, and progress in their learning” shared Lee.
“Mrs. Lee is very knowledgeable and willing to go above and beyond to help students and staff alike. She works with kindergarten through 5th grade students in a variety of subjects, and the students enjoy the one-on-one instruction she provides throughout the day. She is constantly working towards continuous improvement, and it shows in her actions each day as she nurtures brilliance in every student!” stated Principal Lee.
When asked about her favorite teaching memory, Lee said, “It's hard to narrow down a favorite teaching memory because it seems more favorite memories are added each year. One that stands out the most is when my team and I performed in a Lip Sync Battle in front of the school, parents, and staff and won first place!”
Mrs. Lee is married to Dr. Keith Lee. She is mom to sons Sawyer and Parker. When not in the classroom, her hobbies include reading, gardening, swimming, attending live sporting events, and cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team.
She will represent North Brooks Elementary School for the 2023-2024 school year as Teacher of the Year and will compete at the district level for the title of Brooks County Schools Teacher of the Year. The BCS Teacher of the Year will compete at the state level for the title of Georgia Teacher of the Year. The BCS Teacher of the Year will be named at the Teacher of the Year banquet hosted in the fall.
Pictured with Mrs. Lee is Ashlee Gruno, Assistant Principal, and Reggie Lee, Principal