Local teachers take educational trip to China

Even teachers take part in continuing education.

The Western Region Education Service Alliance (WRESA) sponsors tours for teachers to go to China. China is the only destination offered thus far, however, WRESA wants to expand the program to include more places.

Forty educators in all went on the trip; four teachers from Franklin and three from Highlands.

Every time a lottery jackpot rings, North Carolina schools receive more funding. But how much money are schools in Western North Carolina receiving, and how are they using the funds?

Last Thursday, the North Carolina Education Lottery made its final transfer of lottery revenues to the state for the 2011 fiscal year. All in all, the Lottery has given more than $2 billion in total contributions to educational systems throughout the state since it was established in March of 2006.

Transfers for the 2011 fiscal year totaled $446.9 million, $5 million more than projected when the NCEL approved its original budget in June 2010.

Former P.E. teacher to take the reins July 1.

When the next school year starts at Nantahala School, students will be greeted by a new principal, but not an unfamiliar face. James Bryan, who has been a P.E. teacher at the school for more than 12 years, took over as principal effective July 1.

While the new position signals a big career shift for Bryan, who has spent 19 of his 21 professional years in Western North Carolina, he says that having worked with the staff and students at the school for so long gives him a lot of confidence.

After 25 years of service, Southwestern Community College said goodbye to its Macon campus Vice President Dr. Connie Haire.

Dozens of students, educators and community leaders gathered in the conference room of the Cecil Groves center in Macon County on Monday to celebrate Haire’s contributions to SCC before she officially retires on July 1.

“Dr. Haire cares about the students. Heck, she knows me by name,” said nursing student Joe Longbons. “She pushes me to do my best and she is a wonderful woman because she is so supportive.”