The reigning Effingham County teacher of the year, Ebenezer Middle School English and language arts teacher Heather Cocke, has been named one of 10 finalists for the state teacher of the year.

“Mrs. Cocke is an amazing teacher,” said EMS Principal Amie Dickerson. “Her passion for teaching and reaching students is evident in her classroom daily. The experience she extends to her students is awesome and builds a true love of learning.”

The 2017 winner will travel around the state and the nation, serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession. The winner also will be entered in the national teacher of the year competition.

The 10 finalists were chosen from a pool of 155 applicants. The panel of judges included teachers, past state teachers of the year winners and finalists, administrators, community leaders and others.

Over the next several weeks, a panel of judges will conduct video observations and interviews and hear speeches given by the finalists. The winner will be announced in mid-May.

The teacher of the year program is marking its 45thyear and an anniversary gala will be held in Savannah.