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“She has the respect and admiration of the entire Garner Magnet High.

She also uses these leadership skills to work closely with other parents and teachers. She is a track four-team leader. She has an important part in maintaining effective communication between the school and home. A critical part of this communication is keeping parents aware of their child’s academic performance through progress reports and letters. “Liaison” is another important hat she wears to effectively, quickly and fairly resolve disagreements between students and teachers, teachers and teachers, or teachers and parents.

“If there is any conflict I mediate that,” Lackey added.

When she’s not teaching or coaching, she enjoys watching good movies. “Shawshank Redemption” is her favorite. She also likes reading in her spare team.

“Give me a good book and a cup of hot tea, and I’m good for the day,” Lackey explained.

She practices three days week with the softball team and coaches two games a week.

“Yeah, it’s non-stop,” she said. “But, I enjoy it though,” Lackey continued.

Troubleshooting and electrical engineering circuitry were her areas of expertise at IBM. She focused on mechanical engineering at Black and Decker. She shares years of real world experience with her students. She hopes that students will see the connection between academic achievement and their future accomplishments.

“If kids can’t link education to success they are not going to take it seriously,” Lackey explained.

North Garner Middle School Principal John Wall Jr. says Lackey is a consummate professional educator who handles all of her responsibilities at a superior level.

“She is passionate about helping her students be successful,” Wall explained.

“And that is evident by her commitment to North Garner Middle School and the plan we have as a school,” he added.

If Lackey wins, she would be the fourth teacher from a Garner school to earn the recognition since the award began in 1989. Last year’s winner received the use of a 2007 Saturn, a laptop, office supplies and $1,000 in cash. According to WCPSS, these awards may be available again this year.

“I’m elated that my peers nominated me. I just know I love teaching, and its part of my gift,” Lackey added.

“And it’s just an honor to have this award bestowed upon me.”