Avery County Schools is proud to celebrate Ms. Phillips, our 2026 Exceptional Children Educator of Excellence!
Ms. Phillips was selected for this well-deserved honor because of her unwavering dedication to students and her heart for making a difference in the lives of children. Every day, she goes above and beyond to support not only the speech and communication needs of her students, but the whole child.
Ms. Phillips understands that helping students succeed is about more than academics or meeting goals. It is about making sure children feel seen, valued, supported, included, and loved. She works tirelessly to help her students find their voices, build confidence, and know that they have a place where they belong.
Her impact reaches far beyond the students on her caseload. Ms. Phillips is always willing to support her colleagues, share resources and strategies, lend a helping hand, and advocate for what is best for students. Her compassion, encouragement, positive spirit, and genuine love for children shine through in everything she does.
Ms. Phillips represents what is so special about Avery County Schools—educators who see the child first, believe in their potential, and are willing to do whatever it takes to help them thrive.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have Ms. Phillips as part of our Avery County Schools family,” said Superintendent Dr. Jamie Johnson. “Her compassion, dedication, and genuine love for our students are evident in everything she does. Ms. Phillips makes a difference every single day, and we are so proud to celebrate her and the impact she has on the lives of our students and families.”
As Avery County’s Exceptional Children Educator of Excellence, Ms. Phillips will represent Avery County Schools at the Exceptional Children Conference in Greensboro this November.
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Phillips on this incredible and well-deserved recognition!
We are so proud of you, Ms. Phillips! Thank you for using your gifts to help our students find their voices, discover their strengths, and know that they belong!