As a long career in education is coming to a close at year’s end, a teacher who has spent her life advocating for students and colleagues alike was honored with an award that allows her to go out at the top of her career.

Dr. Dorothy Welch might be retiring after 40 years of being an educator, but she was surprised to be awarded this year and thankful to be recognized as she was named the Polk School District Teacher of the Year for 2021.

She also remained clear in her steadfast support for colleagues as she took a few moments to speak after being celebrated by Superintendent Dr. Katie Thomas and receiving her honors and gifts.

“I think all teachers should be honored in every way possible because we are the lifeblood of the school system,” Dr. Welch said. “I am so honored to be up here with all these lovely, lovely women. I know that when I leave, I always wanted to leave the world a better place. I know these ladies are certainly going to leave the world a better place, like many of us have here.”

Dr. Welch, who teaches math at Cedartown Middle, has multiple degrees in education from the University of West Georgia, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Northcentral University.

Last year, Dr. Welch spent months in the hospital after she suffered from health issues, and returned back to the classroom and community to a line of people showing their support. She was also thankful for District leadership and fellow teachers for their support during hard times in 2020.

Teachers also honored this year included Angie Shuman at Cedartown High, Heather Cain at Cherokee Elementary, Lolethia Moreland Tuggle at Eastside Elementary, Kelly Bentley at Northside Elementary, Brandy Henderson at the Polk County College and Career Academy, Lindsey Campbell at Rockmart High, Kerri Earwood at Rockmart Middle, Kale Benefield at Van Wert Elementary, Brook Swan at Westside, and Gentry Sanford representing Youngs Grove Elementary. 

The Board of Education held their monthly regular session for November in the HON Room at the College and Career Academy campus at Cedartown High in order to accommodate the larger crowd on Tuesday evening.

Along with their regular business items handled after the conclusion of the session, PSD also honored the November MERIT Award winner as well.