Judy Haynes of Andover and daughter of June Martin of Augusta, was recently surprised by being named the 2009-2010 Teacher of the Year for the Circle School District USD 375.
The Circle District is comprised of the Benton Grade School, Circle Middle School, Towanda Elementary and Intermediate School, Oil Hill Grade School in El Dorado and Circle High School in Towanda.
Haynes teaches K-6 vocal music in the Benton schools.
Chosen by her peers, she was honored for her creativity in writing and adapting her own music programs, as well as her involvement on the school Social Committee.
Secretly chosen, she was unaware that she was a candidate until announced at a end-of-the-school year meeting.
Haynes is now eligible for Kansas Teacher of the Year.