Haston captures national teaching honor: Longtime educator honored with substitute award
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Haston, who taught fourth grade at Morrison Elementary for 42 years before retiring several years ago, returned to the classroom in the fall of 2000 to fill a vacancy at Hickory Creek Elementary. Since then, she has worked as a full-time, first-grade teacher.
“She does all of the planning, grading and teaching, just like a regular teacher. And she does all that for substitute pay,” said local Kelly office manager Audrey Morgan.
The National Substitute of the Year award was created to recognize a Kelly substitute for outstanding work in the classroom and is based on performance feedback from permanent teachers and school administrators. Haston was selected for the prestigious award from more than 8,000 substitutes employed by Kelly Educational Staffing in 34 states.
She became eligible after winning Tennessee Substitute of the Semester honors earlier this year.
“She passionate about delivering education, about the continuity of learning. She is passionate about connecting with students and making sure they have a positive learning experience,” said Leslie Stoner, one of the award’s judges.
School Board Chairman Mike Holland, a student of Haston’s during his own school career, had nothing but praise for her. “There aren’t enough words to tell how appreciative I am, how appreciative we all are,” he said.
Upon accepting the award, Haston received a standing ovation from the hundreds of school system employees in attendance.
“I’m shocked, spellbound. All I can say is thank you,” she said.