The East Ridge Education Committee recently held a Teacher Appreciation Dinner at Jones Memorial United Methodist Church.  The first East Ridge Teacher of the Year was awarded to Debbie Erwin from East Ridge High School. 

Other nominees were:  East Ridge Elementary –Kristi Thacker; McBrien Elementary – Pam Roberts; Spring Creek Elementary – Kim Roden; and East Ridge Middle – Agnes Stone. 

The guest speaker was Ms. Link Sparks, TEA Distinguished Classroom Teacher of the Year.  The theme was “Bloom Where You Are.”  All faculties and staff of the five East Ridge Schools in the community were invited and treated to a wonderful celebration.  Mary Beth Stalnaker, a teacher at McBrien Elementary, provided special music.  Other special guests included Hamilton County Commissioner Curtis Adams and Mrs. Adams, East Ridge Councilman Larry Sewell and Mrs. Sewell, and East Ridge Councilman Jerry Petty.

The mission of the East Ridge Education Committee is to RAISE THE BAR IN ER.  East Ridge and Chattanooga merchants provided many special gifts to the nominees.  The East Ridge Education Committee is a non-profit organization who supports and strives to bring the community and school together.