B-L Elementary school staff member named 2019 Atlanta Braves Most Valuable Teacher

Batesburg-Leesville, SC - Congratulations to B-L Elementary School teacher Lynette Paxton on being named a 2019 Atlanta Braves Most Valuable Teacher. Mrs. Paxton was one of five educators chosen out of more than 450 nominations for this prestigious award. The award is designed to honor educators who have made a difference in the lives of their students and community.

Mrs. Paxton was recognized on the field at the April 28th Atlanta Braves game in Atlanta, Georgia. Mrs. Paxton received a $1,000 check that can be used to pay for classroom supplies as well as a pizza party for her students. Mrs. Paxton was the only educator from South Carolina to win the award this year.

Mrs. Paxton was nominated for the award by her husband, Greg. The following excerpt is what he submitted for review by the judges: “Her love for her students is unparalleled. Her desire to see them succeed goes beyond the classroom and actual class work. Being a Special Education teacher, which she has such a big heart for, for 26 years, she takes notice of what some may call “the little things.” She started a few years ago getting volunteers to be pen pals for each of her students, sending them notes of encouragement and treats on birthdays and holidays, etc. This year, knowing that most of her kids come from low income and underprivileged homes, she noticed many of them had worn out shoes or ones that didn’t fit. She reached out to those pen pals and the community with her Christmas Wish and the response was overwhelming. Just seeing the beaming smiles on those kids faces when they opened those new Nikes was amazing. While this was an incredible feat to pull off, to Lynn it was just another day at the office. Caring is her middle name and it shows daily. Not only is she a great teacher, but a great servant leader as well as a wonderful role model, setting a positive example for each of her students.”

Congratulations Mrs. Paxton!