Meet Alumna Sarah Padgett
Sarah Padgett (entrepreneurship, ’18, master of arts in teaching, ’20) is making waves in Nashville education. The Belmont University College of Education graduate and kindergarten teacher at Smith Springs Elementary has earned two prestigious honors this year: being named both a Metro Nashville Public Schools Blue Ribbon Teacher and her school's Teacher of the Year. And this success story could be your future.
"I am honored to be recognized as an MNPS Blue Ribbon Teacher and Teacher of the Year at my elementary school," Padgett says. "As a kindergarten teacher, being recognized for doing something I love – helping young children grow, learn, and discover the world around them – is something I never take for granted. My students inspire me every day with their enthusiasm, creativity and boundless potential."
The Blue Ribbon Teacher designation, which comes with a $2,500 award, celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence in equity, instruction and leadership, all core values emphasized in Belmont's education curriculum. The program identifies up to 25 extraordinary teachers annually through a collaboration between MNPS and the Nashville Public Education Foundation.
Dr. Mona Ivey-Soto, associate professor with dual appointment in Belmont's College of Education and Global Honors, was thrilled to learn of her former student's success.
"Sarah's achievements exemplify our mission and illustrate what it means to be a Belmont teacher – someone who enhances the lives and future opportunities of young people while making a lasting impact on our community."
Padgett's journey to teaching excellence began during her student teaching internship under Dr. Cathy Eschete’s guidance, who remembers her exceptional promise. "Even as an intern, Sarah demonstrated an extraordinary gift for connecting with young learners. Her natural talent, combined with her dedication to professional growth, made it clear she would become an outstanding educator. This recognition affirms the qualities we saw in her during her time at Belmont."
The impact of her Belmont education remains central to Padgett's teaching philosophy. "I am very grateful to all of Belmont's faculty and mentors who shaped me into the teacher I am today," she said.
"I am very grateful to all of Belmont's faculty and mentors who shaped me into the teacher I am today."
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