McAllister Elementary fifth grade math and science teacher Elisabeth Nelly is the Bryan County Schools 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year.

Nelly was told she won the award Tuesday afternoon by school superintendent Dr. Paul Brooksher during a faculty meeting, according to a press release from the school system.

“Mrs. Nelly is always going above and beyond for her students,” Brooksher said. “She is a teacher leader who works tirelessly to instill a love of learning in every child. I am continually amazed by the high-quality teachers, such as Mrs. Nelly, in Bryan County Schools.”

Heather Tucker, principal of McAllister Elementary said, “Mrs. Nelly is the embodiment of a lifelong learner. She dedicates an incredible amount of time researching and finding ways to consistently grow as an educator so that she is the best teacher for each of her students. Her passion for teaching and love for her students shine through in her classroom every day from the way students are greeted, to lessons that are planned, to the connections she makes with each child in her room. I am constantly in awe of Mrs. Nelly and it is an honor to have the opportunity to be a part of her team.”

“Mrs. Nelly is by far a lifelong learner, with an amazing work-ethic, a kind heart, a good spirit and a level mind. She is much more than just a teacher to her students. She leads her colleagues, encourages other students in our building, continues to push me as a coach, and guides her kids to be the absolute best they can be” noted Katelyn Finnegan, a current colleague of Mrs. Nelly. 

Nelly will represent Bryan County Schools as she participates in the state level Teacher of the Year process. Every district across the state selects a Teacher of the Year representative who is dedicated, knowledgeable, and displays skills that inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn. 

State School Superintendent, Richard Woods and his Excellence Recognition Unit, review the applications and select a state level Teacher of the Year to represent Georgia. During the year, the Georgia Teacher of the year serves as an educational ambassador for the Georgia Public School System and advocates for the systems, its students and its teachers. 

The state level Teacher of the Year winner will be announced at the Teacher of the Year recognition banquet held in May 2022.