Prince Edward County High School senior English teacher Mary Cook is the school’s Teacher of the Month for September. 
Mrs. Cook is admired and respected by her students who like the way she “makes learning fun.”  They also appreciate her willingness to work with them one-on-one and how she does everything in her power to help them succeed. 
Mrs. Cook took a leadership role in initiating the new P.E.P. Squad (Prince Edward Potential) at the high school.  “Coach Green and I came up with it at the end of last year.  Our goal is to help raise standards and change the way students, teachers, and community members view our school, because we know PECHS is a great school,” she said. 
She is also a senior class sponsor and supports PECHS athletic events.
“Our athletes are amazing, especially our seniors, the way they balance athletics — and even after-school jobs — with their academics,” she said.   
The second-year teacher, a North Carolina native, came to Prince Edward after spending several years as a practicing attorney. 
“I love teaching here,” said Cook. “I love teaching English; the English Department is a really great group. I think our entire faculty all want our students to succeed.”  
Principal Zoltan Kerestely and Assistant Principal Dr. Maurice Smith surprised Mrs. Cook with a floral bouquet in front of her enthusiastically applauding class as they congratulated her on being chosen September Teacher of the Month.
She will also have access to a VIP parking space for the entire month.