June 11, 2026
Ashlee Zachary (center) was named Innovation Teacher of the Year at the GEAR UP Academic Innovation Conference.
Transylvania County Schools
Transylvania County Schools teachers and administrators took home several awards and grants at the recent GEAR UP Academic Innovation Conference in Asheville.
GEAR UP Appalachian State is a seven-year federal grant program that supports students in grades 6 through 12 by connecting them with pathways in education, enlistment and employment. GEAR UP provides support to statewide initiatives, enhances math curriculum to increase rigor for rural students, advises students on their path to post-secondary education, and coaches students to retain on their path towards a bachelor’s degrees.
Rosman Middle School science teacher Ashlee Zachary was named Innovation Teacher of the Year. In addition to grant funding for classroom projects, Zachary will travel to Argentina through Go Global to pursue international learning opportunities.
Brevard Middle School science teacher Adam Dibert received a grant to build a weather station for hands-on science instruction. Rosman Middle School Principal Julie Queen also received a grant to expand the school’s Job Shadowing Experience program for students in grades 6 through 8.
GEAR UP Coordinator Angela Cannon and TCS Social Worker Olivia Shuler represented the district at a Showcase Expo, where they highlighted the House Systems in place at both Brevard Middle School and Rosman Middle School.