We are thrilled to introduce the first-ever MEF Educator of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding educators across Signal Mountain’s schools. This prestigious new award celebrates the commitment, creativity, and leadership of our educators, who make a lasting impact on students every day.
The winners, one from each Signal school, were announced during MEF’s Celebration for Education gala on Saturday, February 1, at the Signal Mountain Golf & Country Club. The Celebration for Education, themed A World of Imagination, blended elements of Alice in Wonderland to highlight the creativity and wonder that Signal educators bring to students daily. The sold-out event featured live music, a live artist, an online auction, and an evening of food and drink, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Signal schools.
The 2025 MEF Educator of the Year award winners are:
Tammy Burns – MEF-Funded Reading Interventionist at Thrasher Elementary
Jessica Matukewicz – 3rd Grade Teacher at Nolan Elementary
Allison Mulloy – Art Teacher at Signal Mountain Middle School
William Greer – German Teacher at Signal Mountain High School
The awards were presented by MEF Board Chair Doug Griswold, along with each school’s principal and PTA/PTSA president.
Each Educator of the Year honoree received a $1,000 award, with half designated for classroom or school-related expenses and half for personal use, along with a themed desktop trophy. In addition, a perpetual plaque will be installed at each school to recognize future winners, ensuring that exceptional educators are honored annually.
The inaugural award received more than 30 nominations, a testament to the exceptional educators in our community. Eligible nominees included all school personnel—teachers, administrators, and support staff—who have been employed at a Signal school for a minimum of three years. Honorees were selected based on their demonstration of one or more of the following criteria:
Innovation in the classroom
Passion and creativity
Outstanding commitment and leadership
Community collaboration and unity
“The MEF Educator of the Year Award recognizes outstanding educators who consistently go above and beyond to support and inspire their students,” said MEF Board Chair Doug Griswold. “These honorees exemplify the dedication and excellence that make Signal Mountain schools exceptional. It’s a privilege to acknowledge their impact and express our gratitude for all they do.”
We extend our gratitude to 5090 South The Furniture Store for sponsoring this year’s awards and to the entire Signal Mountain community for showing up in full support of Signal education.
