Carr named VHEE Teacher of the Year

Parents describe second-grade teacher Elizabeth Carr as creative, innovative and challenging. Carr has been named the Vestavia Hills Elementary East Teacher of the Year. 

Carr serves in many capacities within the school beyond her everyday teaching duties. She is a member of a district committee to educate and guide teachers in implementing the State College and Career Readiness Standards, has presented workshops at multiple district level technology conferences on topics such as “Using Garage Band to Promote Fluency Lessons,” podcasting, and Promethean Board training, and serves as a technology trainer, assisting colleagues in completing daily technology requirements.

Principal Mark Richardson said Carr’s influence within her grade has been positive. “When Elizabeth came to East several years ago, she brought a wonderful idea for classroom management that promoted not only excellent behavior, but also effective learning about communities. All of the second-grade classes adopted this approach that includes electing leaders, having classroom jobs and incorporating a token economy. It has been a great success.”

This community model culminates three times during the year with a “Market Day” where students promote and sell goods and services using classroom currency. Aside from social studies concepts, students hone many other skills as part of this model, including math and writing. 

Reading coach Lee Carol Meads said, “The students love Market Day. They get excited about both selling and shopping as a reward for their hard work in their classroom community. It also reinforces many skills, such as counting money, making change, goods versus services, supply and demand and responsibility.”

Carr’s leadership has been outstanding during her time at East and throughout her career, Assistant Principal Cindy Echols said.

“I have had the privilege to work with Ms. Carr at East and at my previous school. She has always been such a positive presence among her colleagues. She has great ideas, is innovative and quickly earns the love and respect of her students, their parents and her peers. She is an excellent choice for teacher of the year.”