For the second year in a row, WBON TV and Forcht Bank in the Richmond Centre partnered together to recognize outstanding local educators through the Educator of the Month award. Hundreds of nominations were submitted, but only one educator was selected each month. This year, Forcht Bank also presented a $1,000 grand prize to one overall winner as Educator of the Year.
That award went to Mrs. Keeley Cooper, agriculture teacher at Madison Central High School in Richmond. Mrs. Cooper won the popular vote with nearly 1,200 total votes, securing the title by a 97-vote margin in early May.
Mrs. Cooper said winning the honor was a humbling experience.
“I know there are so many amazing teachers who pour their hearts into students every day. To me, this award is not just recognition of my work, but recognition of my students, our agriculture program, and the support system around me. Education is never a one-person job.”
She also expressed gratitude to Forcht Bank for being a strong community partner in education.
“Community support means everything because education extends far beyond the four walls of a classroom. Partnerships like Forcht Bank help teachers provide opportunities and experiences that otherwise may not be possible. It also sends a message to educators and students that the community believes in them and values what happens in our schools. When schools and community partners work together, everyone benefits.”
Mrs. Cooper said she entered the field of education to make a difference in students’ lives, just as her own agriculture teachers once did for her.
“They helped me find my passion and encouraged me to see opportunities and potential in myself that I may not have recognized otherwise. I truly would not be where I am today without them and without the many educators I had throughout my time as a student in Madison County.”
She said her favorite part of teaching is watching students grow both academically and personally.
“My favorite part of my job is seeing students grow, not just academically, but as individuals. Watching a student gain confidence, step outside their comfort zone, succeed in a competition, discover a passion, or accomplish something they didn’t think they could do is incredibly rewarding. Those moments make all of the hard work worth it.”
Mrs. Cooper also continues to encourage fellow educators and future teachers, reminding them that the work they do truly matters.
“Sometimes you may not immediately see the impact you’re making, but the encouragement, support, and opportunities you provide students can stay with them for years. Continue building relationships, continue showing up, and continue believing in your students because you are making a difference.”
Pictured below: Keeley Cooper and family, WBON Marketing Representative J.T. Elliott, and Forcht Bank representatives Katie Coleman and Destiny Skidmore.
