Simon Youth Foundation teacher is named the best in East Tennessee

Clark with Star 102.1's Frank Murphy
Photo courtesy Star 102.1

A teacher from the Simon Youth Dr. Paul L. Kelley Volunteer Academy at Knoxville Center in Knoxville, Tenn., was named East Tennessee’s Educator of the Month for October, 2011.

Jannice Clark teaches mathematics at the Academy, which serves students who are at risk of dropping out of school because of serious illness, pregnancy, and a range of other unique personal circumstances that make it too difficult to connect with learning in a traditional classroom setting.

The East Tennessee Educator of the Month is named by Star 102.1 radio and Huntington Learning Center. A former student nominated Clark through the radio station's website, and a selection committee named Clark the October winner.

“We were told by the radio station that Jannice was chosen ‘hands down’ because the nomination essay told the story of the big difference she has made in students’ lives by giving them the hope and confidence to finish high school,” says Kim Towe, the Academy’s principal.

Clark was presented an award plaque during a ceremony at the Academy that was attended by Star 102.1 DJ Frank Murphy.

“This is an award that honors all of our school’s teachers for their dedication to our students,” Clark says. “I am very humbled that my students made the effort to nominate me, and it means a lot that I can have a positive impact in their lives.”

The Simon Youth Dr. Paul L. Kelley Volunteer Academy operates in partnership between Simon Youth Foundation and Knox County Schools.