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SAVANNAH, Ga. — In the world of education, some teachers leave an indelible mark on the lives they touch. This week, one such educator from the local community received a well-deserved accolade. Ashleigh Wright, a social studies teacher at Southeast Bulloch High School, was honored with the Teacher Excellence Award by Georgia Southern University, highlighting her profound influence on students and the Coastal Georgia community.
Teaching is a profession that demands patience, empathy, and an unwavering passion for education. According to her colleagues and students, Wright exemplifies these qualities in her classroom every day. She’s no stranger to accolades, having recently been named a top 10 finalist for the Georgia Teacher of the Year award. Wright continues to distinguish herself through her unwavering commitment to academic achievement and her students’ success.
The Teacher Excellence Award from Georgia Southern University is designed to recognize alumni who not only inspire future generations but also represent their alma mater with pride. Wright, proudly identifying as a “Triple Eagle,” embodies the spirit of this award through her leadership and dedication.
What started as an ordinary day in February quickly turned into an unforgettable event. While conducting her class at Southeast Bulloch High School, Wright was unexpectedly surprised with the prestigious award, a moment that left her both stunned and deeply appreciative.
“I was a little bit surprised. It felt like déjà vu from a few years ago,” Wright remarked. “I was in the top 10 for the Georgia Teacher of the Year, and this was similar to how they surprised me. I saw a friend walk into my classroom and thought, what’s happening? But I am truly honored, especially coming from Georgia Southern.”
As a student at Georgia Southern University, Wright completed her student teaching at Southeast Bulloch High School – the very campus she now proudly calls her professional home.
“I have three degrees from Georgia Southern. I host students from Georgia Southern,” explained Wright. “I’m the clinical associate. So, that liaison between Georgia Southern and the school here. I’ve always enjoyed having that connection with Georgia Southern and the College of Education.”
For 18 years, Ashleigh has been teaching American Government and AP U.S. Government at Southeast Bulloch High School. She focuses not just on content, but on helping students discover their passions and understand how they can make a difference in their communities.
When ’s team entered the classroom through the doors to set up, students were quick to question what was happening.
“It was a bit weird to see the camera come in here, and I was very surprised to see everyone walk through the door, but Ms. Wright is an awesome teacher, and it’s a well-deserved award for her,” said Addy Price, a sophomore student at Southeast Bulloch High School who was seated in Ms. Wright’s classroom during the honor.
“It’s definitely cool that she got it. She definitely helps us a lot, and she listens to our feedback after tests and stuff,” said Aiden Friese, a student at Southeast Bulloch High School in Ms. Wright’s class. “So, it’s very good to have her as a teacher.”
One of the many reasons the Wright stands out is her curriculum for students.
“I really love the structure that she has in the class and how she lays out everything so that we know what we’re going to be doing ahead of time. She always provides different resources for us to use and to constantly just be able to refer back to, and to know she continues to put the effort into teaching us,” said Price.
Wright says her time at Georgia Southern University laid the groundwork for her success in the classroom.
“Georgia Southern gave me a great foundation. That of my student teaching and being able to adapt to what’s going on around myself, and in the classroom, and in the community. To be able to have that flexibility as your teaching is priceless,” said Wright.
From student teacher to Triple Eagle, Ashleigh Wright has spent over two decades shaping students’ lives in Bulloch County. Her recognition is not just for teaching government, but for teaching students to believe in themselves and their future.