The Lake Norman Chamber honored three local educators at the 2024 Education PowerLuncheon held at Northstone Country Club in Huntersville, Thursday, February 15, 2024. The event, presented by Atrium Health and sponsored by the Lake Norman Chamber Foundation and Business Today/Cornelius Today, and WSIC featured Chris Marsicano, an Assistant Professor of Educational Studies and Public Policy and Founding Director of the College Crisis Initiative (C2i) at Davidson College.

2024 Chamber Board Chair Jeff Tarte presented the Educators of the Year to a Charlotte Mecklenburg School (CMS), Charter School, and Private School teacher. Assisting in the presentations were former Huntersville Mayor Melinda Bales and Brandi Jones, co-chairs of the Chamber’s Education Collaborative.

The recipients included: Mrs. Kimberly Courtland - Merancas Middle College High School, a CMS School; Mrs. Jacqueline Clark - Langtree Charter Academy; and Mrs. Karen Powell – Grace Covenant Academy.

Mrs. Kimberly Courtland - Merancas Middle College High School, a CMS School

Jametta Martin-Tanner Principal Merancas Middle College High School, a CMS School shares this about Mrs. Kimberly Courtland: Mrs. Courtland is a perpetual learner, always seeking new ways to enhance her skills and knowledge for the benefit of the students. Her commitment extends beyond the regular school day, often sacrificing her lunch and planning time to ensure her students feel heard and valued. She maintains an open line of communication with her students taking their concerns and feedback seriously, creating an environment where each student's voice is acknowledged and respected.

An innovative educator, Mrs Courland has enriched her curriculum by incorporating culturally aware texts. This approach not only makes the material more relatable to students but also allows them to see themselves reflected in their studies.  Her passion for teaching is evident in the meticulous preparation and delivery of her lessons, creating an engaging and inclusive learning experience for the students.

Caption: Mrs. Kimberly Courtland - Merancas Middle College High School, a CMS School (center) is recognized as the 2024 Educator of the Year for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Also pictured is 2024 Chamber Board Chair Jeff Tarte, Jametta Martin-Tanner Principal, along with Brandi Jones co-chair of the Chamber’s Education Collaborative, and former Huntersville Mayor Melinda Bales. Photo courtesy of Ocaid Photography.

Ms. Jacqueline Clark - Langtree Charter Academy Upper School

Ms. Jacqueline Clark is an educator who goes above and beyond for her students at Langtree Charter Academy. Her dedication to creating rigorous and creative lessons allows her students to gain a deep understanding of the content. Ms. Clark's integration of cross-curricular strategies in her lessons helps students make connections and better prepares them academically.

She maintains a positive classroom culture where her students feel welcomed, heard, and respected. She has high expectations which have yielded successful results with her students. She has taught a variety of classes which include some advanced courses such as AP United States Government and Politics, AP Seminar, and AP US History. With her vast knowledge and background, she has been able to make a significant impact on the Langtree Charter Academy community as the department lead for high school social studies.

Not only is Ms. Clark dedicated to academic excellence, but she also serves as the advisor for the Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy, where she helps build leadership capacity in the students. Her positive rapport with colleagues, students, and parents is a testament to her dedication to her role as an educator.

Caption: Ms. Jacqueline Clark with Langtree Charter School (center) was selected as the 2024 Charter School Educator of the Year. Pictured with Mrs. Clark is 2024 Chamber Board Chair Jeff Tarte, Renee Hay Interim Principal for Langtree Charter Academy Upper School along with Brandi Jones co-chair of the Chamber’s Education Collaborative, and former Huntersville Mayor Melinda Bales. Photo courtesy of Ocaid Photography.

Karen Powell - Grace Covenant Academy

Rich wrote Grace Covenant Academy would like to nominate Karen Powell for the private school educator of the year. Karen serves as our K through 8^th grade Principal and has done so for the last four years. In addition to serving as Principal, she also has taught middle school math. She brings 20+ years of experience from the Cabarrus school system to Grace Covenant Academy.

Karen is one who exemplifies tremendous knowledge in the classroom regarding subject matter but more importantly, exhibits an encouraging attitude with all students. In addition, Karen leads with energy and passion as she guides and mentor’s teachers in kindergarten through 8^th grade…a seasoned communicator with an attitude of forging ahead by leading by example.

In serving well, Karen receives great respect from the teachers that she leads. She goes above and beyond to help Grace Covenant Academy grow and offer a wonderful experience for our families. 

Caption:Mrs.Karen Powell (center) at Grace Covenant Academy receives the Private School Educator of the Year from the Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. Powell is joined by 2024 Chamber Board Chair Jeff Tarte, Rich Landis Head of School along with Brandi Jones and former Huntersville Mayor Melinda Bales co-chairs of the Chamber’s Education Collaboratives. Photo courtesy of Ocaid Photography.