MITCHELL COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — Sheneka Bowens, the literacy coach at Mitchell County Elementary School, was surprised at the school and named this month’s Mitchell EMC A+ Educator.

Bowens said she has always known she would become a teacher.

“I just have this profound passion for working with our youth,” Bowens said. “I’m always willing to dig in to, you know, just build them up and to make that impact that’s going to last throughout their lifespan. I knew from a child that I was going to become a teacher. I had younger siblings and it was just the dynamics of our household, so I was always the one in charge, you know, making sure that the younger siblings got the homework done and things like that. So kind of inspire me.”

Bowens said one of the most rewarding parts of education is the relationship she is able to build with her students. She also said getting to know them, watching their confidence grow and helping them reach their goals is what makes the job meaningful.

“This moment, you know, just the impact, being able to make a lasting impact, one that students never forget, parents never forget,” Bowens said. “I’m all for pouring into our youth, you know, just building them up so that they’re able to go out into the world and be lifelong learners and productive members of our society.”

Principal says Bowens supports students and staff

Darius Peterson, principal at Mitchell County Elementary, said Bowens is deserving of the recognition, not just for her work with students, but for how she treats fellow teachers.

“Miss Bowens means a lot to Mitchell County Elementary School,” Peterson said. “She is our literacy coach, but she’s not also concerned about the well-being and the academic success of students. But she supports our educators as well, and she is one of our pillars here in our learning community.”

Bowens reacts to recognition

Bowens said being recognized for her work is a special feeling. She said it means a lot to know that the time, effort and care she puts into her students is being noticed.

“This is amazing. I’m just, I’m in awe. I really am,” Bowens said. “I mean, I love everything that I do. I love the students. You know, just being able to again, it’s more of a, it’s service, you know, just service, being able to make an impact. Seeing a need, meeting that need. And that’s what it’s all about.”

Those who would like to nominate a teacher to be next month’s Mitchell EMC A+ Educator can do so here.

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