‘Teacher of the Month’ recognized for building connections beyond the classroom

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Claire McCollough, a first-grade teacher at Porters Neck Elementary School, has been named WWAY’s Teacher of the Month for October, recognizing her dedication to her students and her creative approach to teaching.

McCollough, who is in the early stages of her teaching career, has focused on building meaningful connections with her students, both inside and outside the classroom. She attends local events such as basketball and hockey games to support her students and strengthen her relationships with them.

“I’ve been really trying to build connections with my students, so I can really get them to be learning and feel that connection in our classroom,” McCollough said.

Principal B.J. Horn praised McCollough’s energy and commitment. “She always has a smile on her face, works hard, and it says a lot about our school,” Horn said.

The Teacher of the Month award, sponsored by Masonboro Kids Dentistry, April Jones Insurance, and The Golf Barn, comes with a $600 prize. The program allows community members to nominate educators who go above and beyond for their students.

You can nominate a deserving teacher here.