Emily Jennette, a second grade teacher from Marietta City Schools, was named the 2008 Georgia Teacher of the Year last Thursday.

The announcement was made by State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox during the annual Teacher of the Year Banquet, which was held at the Georgia Aquarium.

"Emily Jennette possesses all the qualities of a great teacher," Superintendent Cox said. "She is extremely knowledgeable, has boundless energy and deeply cares about all of her children. She will be a great Teacher of the Year."

Jennette was chosen from a field of 10 finalists that was announced in January that included - Shelly McLemore of Flat Rock Middle School.

Teachers of the Year from each of Georgia's local school districts were eligible to apply for the statewide honor. There were 147 teachers who submitted applications.

The applications were reviewed by a panel of 20 educators, business and community leaders, as well as members of the Georgia Department of Education.

A separate panel of judges visited each of the finalists last month to observe them in the classroom and conduct interviews. Each of the finalists also gave a speech at a luncheon held earlier this month at Georgia Power.

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