Lee Early College educator recognized for engaging instruction, high expectations and strong student relationships
SANFORD, N.C. - Lee County Schools is proud to recognize Sarah Haney of Lee Early College as the district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year, honoring an educator who has quickly made an impact through engaging instruction, high expectations and strong relationships with students.
Though Haney is still early in her teaching career, colleagues say she already demonstrates the classroom presence of a veteran educator.
“Sarah is an incredible beginning teacher who brings a perfect combination of skill, confidence, and genuine care for her students to the classroom,” said Dr. Kisha Timberlake, Principal at Lee Early College where Haney teaches social studies. “She has a unique ability to keep students engaged and challenged while maintaining a calm, welcoming, and relaxed learning environment.”
Haney’s Beginning Teacher Coach, Anne Knuth, said that classroom culture is one of her greatest strengths.
“Sarah is an exceptional educator,” Knuth explained. “She sets high standards and expectations for her students and because of the culture she has established in her classroom, students rise to meet those expectations.”
For Haney, creating that culture begins with relationships. One of her biggest challenges this year has been encouraging students to open up and engage in meaningful classroom conversations. She has responded by intentionally building trust and creating interactive lessons that invite students to participate.
“I build relationships with them, which helps us establish trust with each other,” Haney said. “Building relationships with the students to foster those conversations and designing fun and interactive lessons has greatly helped.”
Haney also brings a unique perspective to Lee Early College because she attended an Early College herself. She believes that shared experiences helps her better understand the perspective of her students and connect with the challenges and opportunities they experience.
In the classroom, Haney focuses on making lessons engaging and giving students opportunities to learn from one another.
“I try to use engaging stories to teach the content,” she explained. “They want to participate and learn when it is engaging. I love having them talk to each other and teach each other to keep them engaged in the teaching and learning process.”
Haney said one of her greatest areas of growth over the past year has been developing greater confidence in her instruction.
“I have become more confident in my ability to deliver the content,” she said. “I have learned how to break it down into more manageable parts so that students can receive it and learn better.”
She also believes one of the challenges facing education is ensuring resources are available to support students at every level.
“Sometimes we miss those students that are in the middle and close to success, but there is no funding to target those students,” Haney said.
As Lee County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year, Haney represents the dedication, growth and student-centered approach that helps students thrive throughout the district.
“Sarah makes strong teaching look effortless, and it is easy to forget that she is still at the beginning of her career,” Timberlake said. “We are incredibly proud of her and fortunate to have her as part of the Lee Early College family.”