SALEM (WSLS 10) The 2016 Teacher of the Year in the Salem School Division is a veteran teacher with over a decade of classroom experiences, a published author and a master mechanic who can fix your car's transmission in a flash.
"I never expected anything like this and it is truly amazing that I would receive this type of recognition," said Derek Wray, an Automotive Technology Instructor at Salem High School and the 2016 Teacher of the Year in Salem. "I just hope this honor brings recognition to the program, because the more credibility we receive in the community, the more
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the kids will benefit."
The humble Chairman of Salem High School's Trades and Industrial Career and Technical Education Department is responsible for more than 400 students each year who learn the all-important trade skills of auto body, auto service and welding.
"For years there was a dividing line between students who participated in career and technical programs and students who were pursuing a more academic educational program, but in the last five years that has changed dramatically," he said. "I'm now seeing kids who want to be here for the right reasons, plus our administrators in Salem have really made this a priority."
"Derek's leadership has transformed this department and, as a result, students have multiple National Certification opportunities, and Salem's trades and industrial classrooms closely match the environments that students will face as they explore career opportunities in these industries," said Curtis Hicks, Salem's Assistant Superintendent for Instruction.
"I sincerely appreciate this and it is truly unbelievable," said Wray. "I try to put forth a relentless effort for these kids and I appreciate the administrators picking up on the countless hours we put in to make success happen for the students."
All six teachers were honored by the School Board during a special reception earlier this evening. The other Teachers of the Year representing the five remaining Salem schools are:
Adam Simpson - Andrew Lewis Middle School
Kelly Rowland - East Salem Elementary
Shelly Littleton - G.W. Carver
Courtney Stinnette - South Salem Elementary
Traci Basham – West Salem Elementary