Rosalie Wilson has been honored as Garrison-Pilcher Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for the academic year 2024 – 2025.  This prestigious recognition underscores Wilson’s exceptional dedication and contributions to education. Chosen through a meticulous selection process involving nominations from colleagues and interviews with past honorees, Wilson stands out for her remarkable commitment to fostering an inclusive and enriching learning environment.

Wilson is a second grade teacher who teaches all academic subjects, has endorsements in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and Gifted Education, and coaches cross country at Thomas County Central High School.

Wilson’s pedagogical priorities are inspired by her brother Neil who was adopted from China at age 7.

“Neil entered American schools without any English proficiency,” said Wilson.  “Through the combined efforts of family members, teachers, and Neil’s strong work ethic, he thrived and is now a teacher himself.”

Because of Neil, Wilson is grateful to be involved with the Thomas County Schools ESOL and Gifted Education programs to advocate for an enriching, inclusive education that values students’ cultures and backgrounds.

Principal Robin Binion describes Wilson a teacher that is consistently amazing in a classroom that is always welcoming and conducive to learning.

“She is patient and intentional in her instructional delivery,” said Binion.  “She requires the best from her students and they are eager to give it to her.”

Wilson believes that all children deserve an enriching, positive elementary experience.

“I try to make our classroom feel like home for my students and to nurture feelings of confidence and happiness at school,” said Wilson.

Garrison-Pilcher Teacher of the Year for 2022-23 Tanishia Barnhart was a member of the panel who interviewed Wilson and noticed her philosophy that all students are capable of learning.

“She takes the time to evaluate her teaching practices in an effort to enhance student achievement,” said Barnhart.  “She is always open to evolving in her learning as a teacher.”

Jill Grimes (Garrison Pilcher Teacher of the Year for 2019-2020) said that it was obvious in her interview that Wilson has a deep-rooted belief in the potential of all students to succeed.

“She sets high expectations for her students and provides the necessary support and resources to help them reach their goals,” said Grimes.

Grimes and Barnhart agree that Wilson is a role model for her colleagues.

“Rosalie demonstrates leadership, collaboration, and a willingness to share her expertise and best practices,” said Grimes. “She inspires others through her daily actions.”

“She demonstrates teamwork and dedication,” said Barnhart.

Binion attests that Wilson leads by example and that others notice how great an educator she is.

“Rosalie's classroom is the same on Friday as it is on Monday; it's the same in the morning and in the afternoon,” said Binion.  “Her expectations are consistently the same and this is obvious to anyone that visits her classroom.”

Wilson earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Georgia, a Master of Education in Elementary Education from Valdosta State University, and a Specialist Degree in Education from Georgia Southwestern State University.  She is completing her fourth year at Garrison-Pilcher after teaching at Southside Elementary in Cairo for the first four years of her career.  Wilson currently serves on the 2nd grade Curriculum Team at Garrison Pilcher.  Some of Wilson’s personal points of pride include winning the Georgia Retired Educators’ Scholarship in 2018, being named the Grady County Kiwanis Teacher of the Year in 2019,  and the Garrison-Pilcher Digital Learning All-Star teacher in 2022.

Wilson credits a multitude of family members who are educators as well as other valuable colleagues for inspiring her in her teaching career.

“Specifically I credit Delann Connell and Deana Whitfield as well as my grandmother, parents, husband, and father-in-law who are all educators for being impactful mentors,” said Wilson. “My former teachers are all very special to me because they are the reason that school was such a happy place for me when I was a child.”

As a teacher, Wilson affirms that Garrison-Pilcher is her dream school. As she continues to thrive, she remains deeply appreciative of the collaborative and supportive environment that has helped shape her into the educator she is today.

“I am in constant contact with administrators, teachers, and staff members of all capacities who help me grow,” said Wilson.  “These people go above and beyond for our students.”

Wilson added that being a part of Garrison-Pilcher has helped her grow immeasurably.

“I have so many people around me who are so wonderfully talented, intelligent, and caring. I love my school and the people in it!” proclaimed Wilson.