“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” – Barack Obama
"A major factor that influenced my decision to become an educator was the lack of African American male teachers in the classrooms. It is so important for a positive, male role model to be involved in a child’s life in any facet. I wanted to be able to show children that a black man does not have to play a professional sport to be successful or to have a major impact on this world. I wanted to show them that heroes and role models are teachers and that the most difficult plays happen in the classroom." - Johnathon Hines
Johnathon Hines
Mr. Hines understands that a first impression is a lasting impression for children, so he provides an exciting learning experience for his students each day. He also teaches his students to serve others through community service and exhibit good character each day. Additionally, Mr. Hines understands that in our community there is shortage of exposure to positive African-American males because many of our students come from single parent homes. He wants to show children that African American men can be heroes in an every-day role, like teaching. They don’t have to be entertainers or athletes to make an impact on the world.
“This young man is so worthy and deserving of this honor and we are celebrating him today at the Barack school.”
- Angela Thomas-Bethea
Principal, Barack Obama Elementary
“Mr. Hines you know we are very proud of you. It’s so good to see a man who takes care of our children the way that you do.”
- Winfred Watts
Assistant Principal, Barack Obama Elementary
“I'm so proud of him! I'm so proud to be here today at this celebration!”
- Martha Thomas
Mr. Hines' Grandmother
“He is an extreme role model for those to come. Mr. Hines does not even know his impact yet.”
- Stacy Stepney
Chief Academic Officer, DeKalb County School District
“Congratulations to Johnathon on being named Georgia’s Pre-K teacher of the year for public schools. You have demonstrated excellence in the classroom and are the best-of-the-best in the state.”
- Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs
Bright from the Start: GA Department of Early Care & Learning
