The Innovation in Teaching Competition is a competitive grant opportunity that rewards teachers who demonstrate innovative teaching strategies. Round one is specifically for teachers in English, Language Arts and Mathematics.

The winning teachers will receive a $2,000 stipend for serving as a leader to other educators. The winning teachers’ schools will also receive a $5,000 grant. Georgia Public Broadcasting will film the winning educators teaching in their classrooms fall of 2013 and spring 2014.

“The round one winners are among the most creative and effective teachers in our state, and I commend them for their willingness to share their practices with other educators through the Innovation in Teaching Competition,” said Governor Deal. “We know classroom teachers have the single biggest impact on student learning, and these winning first round teachers and those to be identified in the second round of the competition will help us ensure that every student has access to a highly effective and engaging teacher.”

Round one winners are listed below:

Sarah Welch

9th Grade, Literature and Composition

Fannin County High School

Fannin County Schools

Charles Trader

8th Grade, Mathematics

St. Mary’s Middle School

Camden County Schools

Amanda Cavin

First Grade, Gifted, Math and ELA

Unity Grove Elementary

Henry County Schools