Stocklin honored as Ten Sleep Teacher of the Year

Ten Sleep School held an assembly on April 15 to honor first grade teacher Georgia Stocklin, the recipient of the school's 2024 Teacher of the Year Award.

The award is decided by teachers in the district voting for a fellow educator they thought did an exemplary job in the last year.

Stocklin, who has been with Ten Sleep School for 21 years, started as a paraeducator and moved into first grade education three years ago. She has recently graduated with a master's degree in elementary education. She said that it was a great honor to be recognized as the Teacher of the Year.

Stocklin said, "My journey to get here was very nontraditional. I feel lucky that I was given the opportunity to make this journey.

"This award is very special to me because of all the people -family, co-workers, administration, and friends who supported me while I was working on my degree and teaching for the first time in my own classroom. I feel fortunate to teach in a school with such an incredible staff and know there are others more deserving of this award than me. Finally, it is special because I received this award for doing something I love, for the kiddos I love, and in the place I love."

Superintendent Annie Griffin read statements from those who nominated Stocklin.

One said, "She is always the first teacher in the school and the last one to leave. She is dedicated to her students by always coming up with fun learning projects and always giving her full attention. She always has a smile on her face, not just for her students but for other teachers and staff, even when I'm sure she's tired or frustrated."

Another said, "She worked hard to get her degree, but came in with willingness to shuffle things around and make it work with all the other volunteer work she does."

A statement from her daughter, Halli Caines said, "We are incredibly proud of you and all of your accomplishments. Watching you and how hard you work daily to make sure that your students are pushed to reach their potential, while feeling welcome and loved every day. You are one of the most compassionate and supportive people I have ever met, and I'm truly blessed to be able to work with you every day and to call you mom."

Griffin closed by saying, "Mrs. Stocklin, we are all so proud and honored to have you represent Ten Sleep Schools. Thank you so much."

Stocklin celebrated her nomination following the ceremony with cake and cupcakes shared with the whole Ten Sleep School, as well as her family.