Ellen Moak had always known she wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. From a young age, she was drawn to the boundless energy and curiosity of young children, and she felt a deep sense of fulfillment in helping them learn and grow.
Over the years, Mrs. Moak had honed her craft, experimenting with new teaching methods and developing her own unique style. She was passionate about making learning fun and engaging for her students, and she worked tirelessly to ensure that each child in her classroom felt seen and valued.
So when Mrs. Moak was awarded the 2023 Marjorie Riepe Memorial Teacher of the Year Award, it came as no surprise to her colleagues, students, and parents. For years, Mrs. Moak had been a shining star at Dogwood Elementary School in Germantown, Tennessee, inspiring generations of young learners with her boundless enthusiasm and deep knowledge of child development.
As news of the award spread, parents and students alike were quick to praise Mrs. Moak's dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her craft. "Mrs. Moak is simply amazing," said one parent. "She has a way of making each child feel special and loved, and she's always willing to go the extra mile to help them succeed."
Another parent added, " Her positivity and energy are infectious, and she's always finding new and creative ways to teach her students. We feel so lucky to have her as our child's teacher.”
As she accepted the award at the annual Education Celebration at Germantown City Hall, Mrs. Moak was surrounded by the teachers, administrators, and students who had helped her achieve such success. Among them were assistant principal Joye Phipps, principal Jessica Woody, and new teacher of the year nominee Bella Spiotta, all of whom celebrated Mrs. Moak's achievements and her unwavering dedication to her craft. Dogwood’s other teacher of the month winners were also there to support her: Susan Berry, Sabrina Mink, Elizabeth Stuart, and McKenzie Stafford.
In the end, it was clear that Mrs. Moak's impact would be felt for generations to come. As her students continued on their educational journeys, they would carry with them the lessons, inspiration, and love that she had shared with them in the classroom. And for Mrs. Moak, there could be no greater reward than that.