August 25th, 2022 –  Appalachian Regional Healthcare this week recognized the Floyd County ARH Teacher of the Year and Classified Staff of the Year at Floyd County Schools’ Opening Day event. This is the first year of the awards, which recognize staff that demonstrate excellence in work performance, community involvement, leadership, and local support. The winners must also prioritize and support the health and wellbeing of students in line with the mission of ARH. Nominees for the awards are chosen by their peers, and winners are selected by leadership of Appalachian Regional Healthcare and Floyd County Schools.

The 2021/2022 Teacher of the Year is Ashley Fite, preschool and Head Start teacher at May Valley Elementary. Mrs. Fite wins this year’s award due to her demonstrated commitment to mentoring and coaching  other teachers, participating in committees focused on curriculum and leadership, assistance with Tiny Academies, and much more. Ashley has supported recruitment efforts for the local affiliate of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and has a “unique gift for engaging and teaching the most challenging children.” Her nomination form recognized the compassion she shows for students, the care she provides those in most need, and her constant use of positive affirmations. Ashley is also a recipient of this year’s Campbellsville University Excellence in Teaching Award.

The 2021/2022 Classified Staff of the Year is awarded to Sharon Collins, Family Resource Youth Service Center (FRYSC) Director at May Valley Elementary. Mrs. Collins has worked for Floyd County Schools for over 27 years, and in that time, has assisted thousands of children and families in most need. She has held numerous FRYSC posts throughout the system. Sharon participates in Early Childhood Council, Agencies for Substance Abuse Prevention, Back to School Planning Committee, Shop with a Cop, and many other community councils and coalitions that better the lives of Floyd County children. Mrs. Collins has been instrumental in the health and wellness of her students, bringing in partners to provide dental, vision, and hearing screenings, community health fairs, opportunities for physical activity, nutrition programs, and summer camps. “She has a special way of connecting with students and parents that recognizes their struggles, but also reminds them of their strengths,” said coworker Michelle Keathley.

Appalachian Regional Healthcare is proud to partner with Floyd County Schools and highlight some outstanding people who care for and support the health and well-being of children.

Congratulations Ashley and Sharon!