James A. Brooks
English, Photojournalism=12th grade- West Wilkes High School, Millers Creek, NC
Total years as a classroom teacher:27
Education
Bachelor of Arts (English Education) Appalachian State University 1985
Master of Arts (Higher Education, Teaching English) Appalachian State University 1997
Doctor of Education, Appalachian State University 2011
Teaching Experience
1985-Present West Wilkes High School, 9-12 grade, English, Photojournalism
Special Recognition
2010 National Council of Teachers of English--High School Teacher of Excellence
2009 Outstanding North Carolina English Teacher
2009 National Board Certification
2008 NCTE Award for Media Literacy
2007 NEA Award for Teaching Excellence
2005 Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Education Hero Award
2002 All-USA TODAY Teachers Team
1998 National Board Certification
1995 West Wilkes High School Teacher of the Year
1995 Wilkes County Teacher of the Year
1995 Northwest North Carolina Teacher of the Year
Recent media:
http://myfox8.com/2012/03/19/wilkes-co-man-to-be-inducted-into-teachers-hall-of-fame/
http://www.wxii12.com/news/30691831/detail.html
http://www.journalpatriot.com/news/article_56235b00-6f92-11e1-91b8-0019bb30f31a.html
Testimonials
“Although students describe Dr. Brooks as extremely challenging, they also refer to him as fun and fair! While realizing that learning should be about exploration and adventure, Dr. Brooks masterfully looks for ways to allow his students to become the teacher. He is often described as one who views the glass ‘half full.’”
J. Wayne Shepherd, Principal, West Wilkes H.S.
“Jim Brooks represents all that one would want in a teacher. He challenges his students to be the very best they can be. He leads his peers in trying new ways to teach. He willingly gives of himself to advise decision-makers on important issues affecting education. Simply stated, students always come first for Jim.”
Stephen C. Laws, Ed.D., Superintendent, Wilkes County Schools


