ENKA, N.C. (828newsNOW) —

Enka Middle School science teacher Martha Tallent was surprised last week with a special ceremony and the announcement that she had been named the 2025 Buncombe County Schools Teacher of the Year.

“I’m so touched, but more than anything, just so surprised, because there are so many educators to select from,” Tallent said in a news release. “It’s an incredible honor.”

To ensure Tallent was surprised, Enka Middle Principal Amberle Dalton organized an assembly Friday afternoon for eighth-grade students and teachers to celebrate finishing end-of-grade tests.

Once everyone was in the gym, Dalton called on special guests waiting in the hall. Along with Superintendent Dr. Rob Jackson, the “surprise squad” included Associate Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Reed, Assistant Superintendent Joe Hough, Buncombe County Schools Foundation’s Christy Cheek and Tallent’s parents, Bill and Debbie.

“What a great representative she’s going to be of our school system,” Jackson told the Enka Middle School students. “We are so proud of the amazing things she’s done in the classroom with you, and excited to have you all here together to celebrate this special achievement.”

SURPRISED TEACHER OF THE YEAR THINKS FUN AND LEARNING GO TOGETHER

“She’s a teacher leader in our building,” Dalton said in the news release. “She’s an awesome teammate, we’re so fortunate to have her.”

Tallent, who has taught science at Enka Middle School since 2022, is excited about the opportunities that come with the Teacher of the Year title.

“I get to represent an amazing group of educators and students, and I feel so blessed to be able to do that,” she said in the news release.

The Buncombe County Schools Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators of exceptional skill and commitment. It’s an opportunity for teachers to recognize peers who exemplify the profession and its values. Teachers lead the process from start to finish, at the school level and in selecting district finalists. A teacher-led committee reviews candidate essays and conducts interviews and classroom visits.