Chattooga County Schools are celebrating a major achievement in science education as Erin Smith of Leroy Massey Elementary School and Melissa Rowe of Chattooga High School have been named Georgia Science Teachers Association (GSTA) Science Teachers of the Year at the elementary and high school levels.

The prestigious honor recognizes educators across Georgia who demonstrate exceptional excellence in science instruction and a strong commitment to advancing student learning. Smith and Rowe were selected for their dedication, instructional leadership, and passion for engaging students in meaningful, high-quality science education.

District leaders say the recognition highlights the strength of science teaching throughout the Chattooga County School District, where hands-on learning and academic rigor are emphasized daily. Both educators have built proven records of impact in their classrooms, inspiring curiosity and a love of science among students.

As part of the award, each recipient receives a $1,500 honorarium along with complimentary registration to the GSTA Annual Conference, providing opportunities for continued professional growth and collaboration with science educators statewide.

Community members and school officials alike are congratulating Smith and Rowe on their outstanding and well-deserved achievement, noting that their success reflects the collective commitment to educational excellence across Chattooga County.