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Reading specialist wants to ‘grow a culture of reading’

NEWSOMS

A few weeks ago, Meherrin Elementary School recognized one of its own, Amy Hinson, by naming her the Teacher of the Year for 2019-2020. Principal Rickeita Jones call her with the good news. Last year’s recipient, Linda Drake, got the pleasure of delivering a large bouquet of flowers to Hinson at her home.

“It was very surprised,” Hinson said about her own reaction. “It’s quite an honor to be honored by your peers.”

This wasn’t her first honor this year. The school had named her Teacher of the Month this past January.

This is Hinson’s 16th year in education; the first three were done at Hunterdale Elementary School, and the remaining 13 at Meherrin, where she works with students in grades 3-5.

In addition to studying at Camp Community College, Hinson earned her bachelor and master’s degrees at Longwood University.

After about eight years of teaching in a classroom, she transitioned to become a reading specialist.

“I was really interested in helping Title 1 students who have difficulties with reading because I was a struggling student myself,” said Hinson.

In addition to regularly staying current in professional development, she’s been at work compiling a personal portfolio that will be reviewed by a panel. If selected, Hinson could become the Southampton County Public School division’s Teacher of the Year.

“I want to grow a culture of reading,” Hinson said in conclusion. “I want to get kids to love reading.”