At Lake Oconee Academy, our mission is anchored in three essential values: Citizenship, Scholarship, and Community. These cornerstones not only define our school’s culture but also guide our educators in shaping a supportive and inspiring learning environment. We are honored to recognize three exceptional teachers who embody these values and have each received the prestigious Cornerstone Teacher Award for their dedication and impact.

Ms. Jennifer Hart and Ms. Joanie Patrick, who teach in the Early Intervention Program (EIP) for Kindergarten through Fourth Grade, are integral to our lower school. EIP supports students who may be at risk of falling behind academically, providing the individualized attention and resources they need to reach grade-level proficiency. Through their work during PIE (Prevention - Intervention - Extension) time, Ms. Hart and Ms. Patrick help identify academic challenges early on, creating targeted plans that address each student’s unique needs.

Their commitment to building academic confidence and providing one-on-one support has made a transformative difference in the lives of countless students. By filling in learning gaps and offering tailored instruction, these two educators enable their students to flourish, fostering a love for learning that grows along with each child’s academic success.

Mrs. Danielle Bilbo is recognized for her remarkable approach to differentiation and student-centered instruction. With an innate ability to understand her students’ individual needs, Mrs. Bilbo creates customized learning pathways, ensuring every child can progress in a way that supports their strengths and areas for growth.

When faced with challenging units, Mrs. Bilbo fosters a collaborative classroom by bringing in additional support and seeking out the resources necessary for her students to succeed. Her dedication to crafting an inclusive learning environment reflects her commitment to LOA’s core values and her students’ personal and academic growth.

Ms. Hart, Ms. Patrick, and Mrs. Bilbo exemplify the spirit of Lake Oconee Academy. Through their dedication to the principles of Citizenship, Scholarship, and Community, they are shaping the future of our school and empowering our students to achieve their best.

Please join us in congratulating these outstanding teachers for their hard work, compassion, and commitment to excellence. Their impact will be felt for years to come, as they inspire students to reach their full potential and carry these core values forward into the world.