Tammy Lites Named 23-24 Teacher of the Year at De Queen Public Schools
De Queen Middle School Math Teacher Tammy Lites received a big surprise and a well-deserved honor during Thursday night’s Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Banquet held at the DHS Cafeteria. Each school’s teacher of the year was recognized, followed by the announcement of Mrs.Lites being named the 23-24 District Teacher of the Year for De Queen Public Schools.
Mrs. Lites is completing her 27th year in education and is currently in her 10th year of teaching math at De Queen Middle School. She began her career in education at Lockesburg Elementary. Mrs. Lites taught there for three years before going to her hometown of Dierks, where she taught for 14 years. She truly enjoyed working with a great group of teachers and administrators. In 2014, she had the opportunity to come to De Queen to join the middle school. “It was a wonderful opportunity to work with such a great team of educators,” she stated. Mrs. Lites had always respected the success taking place at De Queen Pubic Schools and was excited about joining the Leopard Family. She credits the administration, outstanding teachers, and staff for the success at DMS and the school district. “It truly is a great place to work.”
In addition to her role as an educator, Mrs. Lites loves spending all her free time with her family. She is married to Chad, a teacher, and DHS's Lady Leopard softball coach. She is blessed with two exceptional children and two precious grandchildren, with another on the way. Her daughter Caitlin Collins teaches social studies at DMS, and her son Cody graduated from DQ in 2017. She truly believes the school district has greatly blessed her and her family. “We have all been very blessed to be a part of such a wonderful school district.”
Mrs. Lites believes that students are unique and capable of excelling if given the knowledge and experience to reach their goals. She acknowledges that each day is an opportunity to do better. The quote, “If better is possible, good is not enough’” is an excellent summary of her fundamental philosophy of teaching! Tammy stated, “I truly believe all students will rise to the expectations set for them. She said, “I am so grateful to have the opportunity God has given me to work with children daily. I love my job, role, and responsibility as an educator.”