‘Teacher of the Month’ forms positive connections with students and co-workers

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — In the spirit of the holiday season, WWAY continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding educators in our community. We recently visited Anderson Elementary School in New Hanover County to surprise Mrs. Kate McDonough, who has been nominated as the WWAY Teacher of the Month for December.

McDonough has been teaching at Anderson Elementary for six years, and taught at several other area schools before that. She says she didn’t necessarily set out to teach kindergarten.

“I got my student teaching in first grade and really loved it, and then my first teaching job just happened to be kindergarten, and I fell absolutely in love with it, and that’s all I’ve ever taught – is kindergarten,” McDonough said. “So it’s the grade for me.”

The veteran teacher was nominated by a viewer for her years of commitment and for going above and beyond for her students. Principal Kristi Tinnes says the recognition was well-deserved.

“Ms. McDonough is a fantastic kindergarten teacher,” Tinnes said.” As you can see, she’s high energy, high impact. Students love her, and she builds really great relationships with students, families, and her colleagues.”

Apart from her role as a teacher, Mrs. McDonough also works with beginning teachers and leads a committee focused on behavior and mental health. While she does not expect recognition, she appreciates knowing her hard work is making a positive impact.

“Knowing that I come here every single day to make a difference, and knowing that other people see that too just makes me feel like I know that this is where I’m supposed to be,” Mrs. McDonough said.

McDonough received a $400 prize for the recognition, provided by Beach Bagels and Subs and Fulford Heating and Cooling.

Click here to nominate a teacher for the honor.