Novice Teacher of the Year

Cleveland City Schools is proud to recognize two outstanding educators, Jordan Wagers and Lindsey Scott, both graduates of Lee University, for their exceptional contributions to education and their positive impact on the students of Cleveland High School and Cleveland Middle School.

Jordan Wagers, who teaches Algebra 2 at Cleveland High School, has recently been named among the top ten finalists for the Novice Teacher of the Year Award from the Tennessee Department of Education. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Ms. Wagers’ commitment to fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment, where students are encouraged to reach their full potential. Her innovative teaching methods and ability to connect with students have made her a beloved member of the Cleveland High School community.

CHS Principal, Bob Pritchard expressed his pride in Ms. Wagers, stating, “Jordan’s passion for education and her desire to see every student succeed is what sets her apart. Her contagious smile and magnetic personality draw her students to want to learn in her class. She is so valuable to Cleveland High School, and we are thrilled that her hard work is being recognized at the state level.”  

Similarly, Lindsey Scott, a 6th-grade math teacher at Cleveland Middle School, was recently honored with an Honorable Mention for the Novice Teacher of the Year award. Ms. Scott has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to help students overcome their fear of math by shifting their mindset, telling her students, “Your goal isn’t to love math, your goal is to recognize that you're capable of doing math.”

Ms. Scott, who joined Cleveland Middle School after teaching for three years in Athens City, chose to remain in Cleveland due to the city’s diversity and access to outdoor activities. Her creativity and adaptability in the classroom have allowed her to reach students of all learning and language levels, making her an integral part of the Cleveland Middle School team.

CMS Principal, Nat Akiona, said, “Lindsey Scott brings an enthusiasm for teaching that is infectious. Her classroom is a welcoming environment for students and she has quickly become an integral part of our 6th grade team. We are fortunate to have her as a part of our staff and we are incredibly proud of her achievement.”

Both Jordan Wagers and Lindsey Scott exemplify the dedication, passion, and innovation that Cleveland City Schools values in its educators. Their recognitions underscore the district's commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.