Kristi Taylor and Clayton stand beside principals Mark Fleetwood and Dr. McKinney to accept their Teacher of the Year award.

Elementary special education teacher, Kristi Taylor and secondary English teacher, Clayton Wilson have been named the Teachers of the Year for Artemis Virtual Academy.

The two were surprised by district representatives in October, receiving a $500 check and a certificate.

"I am truly honored and deeply humbled. Being named Teacher of the Year is not something that I take lightly," Taylor said. "It reflects not only on my work, but the collaboration, trust and support of the people around me. "

Both Taylor and Wilson joined the staff in the school's first year of existence.

I was initially speechless. My first reaction was pure surprise, followed quickly by gratitude," Wilson said. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our shared mission, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow together."