Central Elementary’s faculty and staff filled the gymnasium bleachers (due to social distancing) on Tuesday morning awaiting a visit from their district’s board member.
The reason they were there became clear when yard signs were carried in with the word ‘best’ being displayed big and bold. Clapping could be heard on the arrival and board member Kevin Hinkle shared the news that their school had been voted the best by readers of the Mountain Advocate.
Hinkle told staff that the recognition was all theirs, that they were deserving of the praise, for the care that they show for Central’s students. “It’s the work that you all do that is the result of this,” said Hinkle.
After moving together for a photo opportunity with the ‘Best School’ sign, Hinkle presented a second award, this one to principal Eric Hubbard for being voted the best principal in Knox County.
Hubbard echoed similar praise to the Central Elementary staff, saying that when the school receives banners and other recognitions, he never takes credit. “It’s all about our teachers, instructional assistants, cooks, it takes everybody,” said Hubbard. “I put it on Facebook, my hashtag is always #CEShasthebest”.
Unable to be present, but also receiving an award, was teacher Olivia Holstein. Holstein was voted Knox County’s best teacher.
Charles Myrick, general manager and publisher of the Mountain Advocate, offered congratulations to Central Elementary for capturing the three awards this year.
“Each year, thousands of readers take the time to cast their ballot to decide who gets the title of ‘Knox County’s Best’. It’s an exciting time as we see how competitive certain categories can become among local businesses and organizations. Everyone who wins does so at the discretion of the voter — sometimes the margin is wide and the victory is very decisive; other times the margin is narrow… we’ve literally seen it come down to two or three votes choose who has the best coffee in town,” said Myrick.
“We congratulate all winners in every category and give them an opportunity to say thank you to the voters through advertising and signage. The contest starts the same week each year, which is the third week in May and runs for three weeks. The ballot is only found in the printed newspaper and only original copies are counted. Be sure to watch for the 2021 Knox County’s Best contest next year, and exercise your right to vote!”
The three ‘Best’ signs will be displayed proudly at the school.