Asheville High School/SILSA’s Sara Monson has been named the Asheville City Schools 2023 Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year!

 

She will move on to compete for the title of 2023 North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) CTE Teacher of the Year.

 

“I just want to make opportunities for the students and show them what is out there. I love giving them experiences like working with local professionals that they can take with them, and we have a lot of fun doing it,” said Ms. Monson.

 

Ms. Monson started at Asheville Middle School in 2005 and moved to #TheHigh in 2019 as the Culinary Arts and Hospitality teacher.

 

Before joining the #CougarFamily, Ms. Monson was a chef in the private sector. She received a bachelor's degree from Appalachian State University in 1998 and a culinary degree from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in 2002.

 

Asheville City Schools Director of CTE Dr. Ivry Cheeks said, “Congratulations! When I think of a teacher who goes above and beyond for her students and our profession, one of the first names that come to mind is Sara Monson. It gives my heart so much joy to see her recognized in this way because of the countless hours and devotion she dedicates to Asheville High School and SILSA students. I am so lucky to get to work with her daily and, most of all, call her my friend.”

 

When asked about their teacher, The AHS/SILSA Pro Start Culinary Team said, “There are no words that can properly describe Ms. Monson. She has dedicated her life to this culinary program and everything she does; she does for her students. She motivates us and wants us all to succeed. She’s the REALEST of the real!”

 

Congratulations, Sara Monson; we are so proud of you and so lucky to have you in Asheville City Schools!

 

#ACSCougarPride