Porter’s Chapel Academy’s Cheryl Israel Grant has given much in her 44 years as an educator, and Wednesday, she got something back. She was named secondary educator of the year by the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce.

Grant was first chosen to represent her school by her peers, then selected by a panel of retired educators to receive the top award and a $1,000 prize donated by Ameristar Casino.

Judges coordinator Debbie Freeman said Grant’s passion was evident.

“Cheryl’s passion for teaching was so visible,” Freeman said. “When you retire from the public schools and still have a desire to pursue your calling in life and when you’re drawn to children, it’s a passion. She has a desire to make a difference in kids’ lives.”

Grant said she was absolutely thrilled to win the award.

“I’ve been teaching for a long time,” she said. “Teachers don’t get to hear thank you very often. It made me feel wonderful to know we’re appreciated.”

The award was also encouraging, Grand said.

“It made me feel appreciated,” she said. “When you’re appreciated you want to do more and you want to do more.”

Grant said she’s been at it for a long time, but she couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“I love teaching,” she said. “It’s not always an easy job, but it’s rewarding.”

PCA Principal Pam Wilbanks said she’s extremely proud of Grant for taking home the honor.

“She’s an exceptional teacher,” she said. “I worked with Mrs. Grant since she was a teacher at Warren Junior, so I’ve known her about 25 years and never has she been anything but exceptional. She’s just the perfect educator of the year.”

Wilbanks said she thinks her experience sets Grant apart.

“She’s taught 44 years,” she said. “Teaching and the learning process is something that comes second-nature to her.”

Wilbanks added Porter’s Chapel was proud to call Grant one of their own.

“We’re very proud of the quality of our teachers,” she said. “Mrs. Grant just exemplifies the quality of the teachers we have here at Porter’s Chapel.”

Vicksburg High School’s Ebony Gardner was named first runner up, and she was given a $500 award by the Chamber of Commerce, which was made possible by an anonymous donor.