The Tennessee Association of Independent Schools has announced that Heather Ott, an English instructor at Baylor School, is one of four outstanding teachers from across the state.
According to Richard Martin, executive director of TAIS, the Hubert Smothers Award is the association's most prestigious honor and will be presented to Ms. Ott at the annual TAIS Leadership Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 2.
Ms. Ott joined the Baylor faculty in 1986 and currently teaches AP English literature, English II, and is the faculty sponsor for the Round Table literary discussion group.
She also serves as head coach of the girls’ cross country team.
Baylor Headmaster Scott Wilson commented that Ms. Ott is not only a master teacher she constantly seeks feedback from students and peers about what is working well and what can be better. “She is a life-long learner, and she exhibits contagious enthusiasm for innovative ideas -- all for the betterment of herself and her students. She applies the same passion and purpose to her coaching. Her teams have won numerous state championships, and she has been named 'coach of the year' almost routinely both locally and state-wide. Perhaps her greatest gift in the classroom and with her cross-country athletes is her extraordinary capacity to inspire each individual with whom she works,” said Mr. Wilson.
According to TAIS, the Hubert Smothers Award commemorates the combination of deep commitment to the teaching profession and demonstrated excellence in all aspects of education that characterized the life and work of the remarkable Tennessee teacher and Headmaster for whom it was named. The Hubert Smothers Award honors select educators who have met rigorous criteria. Each has taught for 20 years or more while continuing to be a "life-long learner" and to demonstrate enthusiasm for teaching. They are also teachers who have a long-term positive impact on their students, and who possess sensitivity to the needs of students and work unselfishly toward their development. In addition, they have exhibited leadership in extra-curricular educational activities, have a positive relationship with colleagues and the administration, and more importantly, make contributions to further education beyond the school community that have an impact on the wider local, state or national educational community.
Other teachers in the state to be honored are from Christ Presbyterian Academy, Brentwood Academy and Webb School of Knoxville.