Ronda
Ronda, NC · Education
The Tribune
Elkin Middle School teacher receives statewide excellence award
Elkin Mididle School teacher Matt Garris has received the prestigious North Carolina Educator of Excellence Award, the school system announced in a press release. The statewide recognition honors educators who demonstrate leadership, service, and innovative instructional practices while making a positive impact on students with disabilities. At Elkin Middle School, Garris works directly with exceptional children, providing tailored instruction and compassionate support designed to help every student succeed. Prioritizing strong relationships with students and families, he helps young learners build confidence and early self-advocacy skills, school leaders said. Standing by his side at the ceremony was his wife, Cameron Garris, an Exceptional Children teacher in the district who also received the same award for the 2023–2024 school year. “Matt Garris is deeply committed to his students and Elkin Middle School,” said Dr. Jennifer Hall, interim superintendent of Elkin City Schools. “He works closely with teachers to analyze student data, identify individual needs, and ensure every student receives the instruction, resources, and support necessary to reach their full potential. His dedication to student success, collaborative work, and commitment to our school community make him an incredible asset to our students, Elkin Middle School, and Elkin City Schools.” Fellow teachers praised Garris
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wataugaonline.com
Watauga High School cross country teams both win 2026 NCHSAA 6A state titles
Watauga High School’s cross country teams are both 2026 NCHSAA 6A state champions after the Pioneers claimed the men’s and women’s titles on Saturday, Nov. 7. The Watauga women’s team won its second straight state championship and the program’s sixth state title overall. The Watauga...
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The Mount Airy News
The Stokes News
West Stokes' Morrison wins 4A boys cross country state title
KERNERSVILLE — West Stokes senior Bryan Morrison closed his high school career with an individual state championship Friday, winning the NCHSAA 4A boys race at Ivey Redmon Sports Complex in 15 minutes, 47.88 seconds. The championship by Morrison was the first in school history for a cross country runner. Morrison beat Wilkes Central’s Morgan Woodard (16:08.90) by about 21 seconds. West Iredell’s Bryant Moore was third in 16:20.84. The Wildcats’ boys team, one of the favorites for the team title, finished fourth with 106 points. Carrboro won with 90, one point ahead of Brevard (91). Wilkes Central took third with 104, two points ahead of West Stokes. First Flight was fifth with 107. “Crap, crap, crap. Wow, that about sums it up,” West Stokes coach Benji Knox said of his initial reaction. “The boys’ team was a bit disappointing just because illness and injuries led us to a fourth-place finish instead of winning. But those are life lessons.” Knox said Morrison’s win made up for some of that disappointment. “I was super proud of Bryan for finishing his senior season with a state championship,” Knox said. “He has really worked hard to improve and deserves being a state champion.” Isaiah