CLAY COUNTY MAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR

(09/10/2011)
Robert Morris, a two-decade Clay County High School agriculture and forestry teacher has been named West Virginia's Teacher of the Year.

Morris will receive an educational technology package that includes a laptop and other devices worth $15,000. He'll also get to use a new Toyota free of charge for a year. Mountain State Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Horace Mann Insurance will give him a cash reward.

Morris was one of dozens of teachers and administrators recognized this week, with teachers from all 55 counties were given an award.

"It's a celebration to honor teachers and service personnel who have had exemplary practice in the classroom," said State Schools Superintendent Jorea Marple.

Some WV counties have problems recruiting and keeping teachers. Marple said that could get worse in the future. Theoretically, more than half of the current teachers could retire soon, she said.

West Virginia teachers are fleeing for better pay.

West Virginia ranks 48th in the nation in salaries for public school teachers.