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Fairmont Senior High School’s Poling honored as Teacher of the Year

Staff Report

Times West Virginian

FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Toni Poling, the 2017 West Virginia Teacher of the Year, was presented a check for $5,000 and a new Toyota car Wednesday afternoon in Charleston.

Toni Poling, 2017 West Virginia Teacher of the Year holds both a check from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia and a key for a new car from Toyota — awards for the honor— Wednesday afternoon.
(Submitted photo)

Governor Jim Justice’s Chief of Staff, Nick Casey, joined State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Martirano, West Virginia Board of Education President Tom Campbell and representatives from Toyota Motor Manufacturing of West Virginia and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield were in attendance during Poling’s acceptance of her prizes.

For 11 years, Poling has taught English to 11th- and 12th-graders at Fairmont Senior High School and utilizes innovation and technology to bring the subject to life. “I am incredibly honored to represent West Virginia teachers as Teacher of the Year,” said Poling in a press release. “Though teaching is the most challenging enterprise I’ve ever undertaken, it’s also one of the most rewarding. Walking into my classroom and learning with my amazing students is one of the best parts of my day, and I look forward to sharing my experience with my colleagues on the national level.”

Among her recognition as West Virginia Teacher of the Year, Toyota donated a new car in support of Poling’s award.

“Teaching is a profession worthy of our utmost respect. Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia is thrilled to be a part of the West Virginia Teacher of the Year Award, as the award recognizes exceptional teachers who display enthusiasm and dedication to their students every day. On behalf of all our team members, congratulations, Toni Poling,” said Leah Curry, Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia President.

Poling was also awarded a $5,000 from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia.

“We know that Toni Poling will serve as a role model for her students and peers throughout West Virginia, inspiring others by demonstrating how the highest standards of her profession can be achieved in the classroom,” mentioned Jim Fawcett, Highmark West Virginia president in the press release.

Justice expressed the importance of teachers in West Virginia.

“Toni Poling is a shining example of how great West Virginia’s educators truly are,” stated Justice in the press release. “If we would just give our educators the freedom to teach, just imagine what our students could achieve. Our educators are under-appreciated and the truth is they have one of the most important jobs. We need to honor our teachers every single day for their hard work.”

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