Tears welled up as Kristen Bagwell accepted the award as Newton County School Systems 2016 Teacher of the Year Award, saying, “I’ve always wanted to be a teacher and I’m blessed Newton County has given me a chance to do that.”

Bagwell, who teachers literature at Alcovy High School, was presented by Newton-Covington Chamber President Ralph Staffins at a ceremony held at Newton High School on Thursday.

“Teacing is a very demanding profession,” said NCSS Superintendent Dr. Samathan Fuhrey prior to the announcement of the winner. “It requires a lot of time and a lot of patience.

“The Newton County School System values the significant contribution made by all our educators,” she said. “Congratulations to all our teachers. We are so proud of all of you.”

Bagwell was one of 23 teachers selected to represent their school in the 2016 NCSS Teacher of the Year program. As the 2016 Teacher of the Year, she received a $1,000 check, a crystal vase, three month’s free rental of a Mustang from Covington Ford, a $500 gift card and a gift basket worth $100 from Kroeger, and a dozen red roses.

Runner ups Amanda Angulo of Indian Creek Middle School and Bo Holder of South Salem Elementary School received a crystal vase and a $250 gift card and $100 gift basket from Kroger.

Bagwell began teaching in Newton County at Alcovy High School in 2012. She teaches literature and composition, SAT Prep, and Tools for College success, and has served as the Ninth Grade Literature and Composition Content Leader and the English Language Arts Department Chair. Bagwell has also been chosen to participate in the Emerging Leaders Endorsement Program through Griffin RESA.

Currently working towards her Master of Eduation degree and Reading Endorsement from Georgia Southern University, Bagwell has a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in English Education from the University of Georgia.

She will now represent the county at the Georgia State Teacher of the Year program.