Van Heiningen chosen as Garrison-Pilcher's Teacher of the Year

Kylene Van Heiningen was recently chosen as Garrison-Pilcher’s Teacher of the Year. Van Heiningen has taught for 11 years at Thomas County Schools serving all at Garrison-Pilcher in a first grade classroom. 

“Since my very first year of teaching, I have had a canvas print hanging above my classroom door that reads: ‘Every child is gifted, some just unwrap their boxes a little later than others,’" said Van Heiningen. "When preparing for lessons to teach, I always try to make sure that my lessons reach all learners. My job as an educator is to do my best to make sure that all students learn and make progress. That is one of the things that attracted me to teaching. I can get creative and show students that learning can be fun.”

The Teacher of the Year (TOTY) is nominated by and voted on by Garrison-Pilcher’s faculty. Three finalists are interviewed by former recipients of this award and the final nomination is awarded to the top choice.

?Principal Sharonda Wilson said, "Mrs. Van Heiningen is an amazing teacher who has a great rapport with ?students, parents, and colleagues.  She dedicates her time and efforts to ensure her diverse group of students are learning and enjoying their learning environment. I am thankful for her and her work as a first grade teacher at Garrison-Pilcher Elementary. I am proud that she is Garrison-Pilcher's Teacher of the Year."

Van Heiningen graduated from Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina, with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

Van Heiningen said, “Garrison-Pilcher is the only school where I have taught. In the past eleven years, I have made so many friends here and met so many wonderful students and families. Having graduated from Thomas County Schools, it has been so wonderful to come back and give back where it all started."

Van Heiningen lives in Thomasville with husband, Wally, and two children, Preston and Parker.