RCS, education, Substitute Teacher of the Year

Photos by Rome City Schools

Rome City Schools announced their 2019 Substitute Teacher of the Year awards, recognizing Kenny Tribble and Ronnie Grist.

Kenny Tribble was nominated by Laura Walley and the staff of Elm Street Elementary School.

“Kenny has demonstrated an ALL-IN attitude since his first day at Elm Street. He stepped in as a long-term substitute for a paraprofessional who teaches an art activity rotation. It is important to know he is not a certified teacher but is dedicated and has a strong work ethic. He immediately became part of our team. When he first started his long-term position, he came to Elm Street on a planning day to clean his classroom. He was not compensated for this extra work. He takes pride in his work and has planned several special projects for the students he teaches during his art activity rotation. He also went out of his way to make sure the students of Elm Street were represented in a special community art show at Floyd Medical Center. He also collaborated with teachers to plan a Black History Month art project that is displayed in our school. He demonstrates a professional attitude and true desire to help students succeed. The students enjoy their time with Mr. Tribble and have developed a positive relationship with him. He is a positive role model for all students, especially our young men. This is above what is expected of a substitute teacher,” said Laura Walley, Elm Street Principal.

Ronnie Grist was nominated by Parke Wilkinson and the staff at Rome Middle School.

“Mr. Grist has been here most of our school year and has been an invaluable part of our team. Mr. Grist is always here early in the morning, and available to us whenever needed. He has been totally flexible and has covered whatever areas at the school we needed covered. His personality with the students is always positive, and he is a great role model to some of our more “challenging” students. When asked to make a recommendation for Sub of the Year, I didn’t hesitate for a moment to recommend Mr. Grist,” said Kathleen Colvin, Secretary at Rome Middle School.

“Both of these substitute teachers are rock stars and go above and beyond the call of duty in these schools,” said Julie Waguespack, Account Manager at Kelly Educational Staffing.

Both Tribble and Grist were further nominated at the State level where the winner is entered into the running for the national Substitute Teacher of the Year (STOTY).

Other Rome City School subs who received nominations were:
January Gable: Anna K Davie Elementary School
Grace McGregory: Wesley Styles at North Heights Elementary School
Michael Moniz: Rome Middle School
Carrie Wallace: West Central Elementary School

Congratulations to these amazing substitute teachers who dedicate their time to our students and their education. Also, special thanks to Kelly Services for their help in finding quality personnel for Rome City Schools.