In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, Desoto High School announced Early College teacher, Cora Garner, as the recipient of the Found A Way Foundation’s 2021 AP Teacher award.
Garner was surprised with a monetary gift in recognition of her commitment and dedication to educational excellence and student achievement during the COVID-19 pandemic by Found A Way Foundation CEO and President Dr. Brandon Morgan in the presence of her DeSoto High School and ECHS content instructional colleagues and the DeSoto ISD School Board Trustees. DHS Principal Shon Joseph and ECHS High School Principal Dr. LaBotta Taylor helped coordinate this brief mid-morning recognition.
Dr. Morgan, who is also a DeSoto High School alum, wanted to do something to support teachers during this time of crisis and chose to support a teacher at his alma mater.
“This year has been rough for teachers and the pandemic hit hard,” said Morgan. “Ms. Cora Garner still showed up and showed out and was very helpful to our scholars in DeSoto. We have watched her work in the community and appreciate what she is doing. We just wanted to say keep doing what you are doing. I am very pleased to have this opportunity to partner and celebrate a DHS educator.”
Before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Garner, an ECHS English teacher has been consistently noted for continuing her unique, culturally responsive approach to instruction even in a virtual space. Parents and students have noted her connectedness and attentiveness to her students and their parents and her intentional focus on their social-emotional wellness, in addition to their classroom engagement.
DeSoto ISD School Board President Amanda L. Sargent spoke about Garner and noted her excellence in instruction as a former teacher of the year and her ability to educate, engage and inspire students to be learners and leaders in their community.
“She educates students in reading and literacy and helps them comprehend it. Then, our students can go out and share their impact on the world in their own words. We are just excited to celebrate with Ms. Garner.” said Sargent.
Garner, who was completely surprised at the brief celebration, was elated about her selection and inspired to do more for students.
“I am so thankful to Found A Way for the cash prize and the recognition. This is my ultimate dream to pay it forward to students here in DeSoto ISD as well as parents and staff,” said Garner. “This is just the beginning of the leadership mark that I will make on the district.”
The Found A Way Foundation is a non-profit organization designed to help steer citizens of disadvantaged children, families, and communities to a greater opportunity to realize their true potential.