On Friday night, February 13, 2026, Swainsboro High School’s basketball programs closed out the regular season home schedule with more than just competition on the court. As the Swainsboro Lady Tigers and Swainsboro Tigers hosted Woodville-Tompkins, the evening also served as Educator Appreciation Night, creating a powerful moment that blended basketball with gratitude, reflection, and recognition for those who have helped shape the lives of student-athletes beyond the game.
Following the conclusion of the girls’ game and before the start of the boys’ contest, seniors from both basketball programs took center court to honor educators who have played meaningful roles in their journeys. While an educator is often defined as a person who provides instruction or education, the words shared during the ceremony revealed a much deeper impact. Students recognized teachers, coaches, and mentors who served as listening ears, offered encouragement during difficult moments, and provided the extra push needed to help them stay focused, believe in themselves, and keep moving forward.
On behalf of the Swainsboro High School basketball coaching staffs, Coach Brice Hobbs, Coach Alexandria Walden, and Coach Monica Pace, appreciation was extended to each educator for their commitment, dedication, and passion in depositing love and lifelong lessons into the students they serve. Those honored during the ceremony included Brandon Andrews, Cindy Brett, Megan Davis, Amanda Freeman, Hope Henry, Erica Johnson, Adiela Serralde, Coach Raymond Scott, Cashaunda Smith, Coach Dwight Smith, and Ashley Thompson. Each name represented a story of encouragement, belief, and lasting influence.
Brandon Andrews was recognized by JaRon Johnson, who thanked him for encouraging perseverance in school, chasing dreams, and keeping God first. Cindy Brett was honored by Quarri Tillman, who shared how her kindness, care, and constant belief helped instill valuable life lessons and confidence for life after high school. Megan Davis was recognized by Jamariya Howard, who credited her belief and guidance for helping him stay focused academically and succeed in Algebra, noting that her support helped separate him from distractions and refocus his priorities on education.
Amanda Freeman was honored by Alyssa McGee, who described her as kind, funny, and down to earth, making her classroom an enjoyable environment. Hope Henry was recognized by Jalaya Freeman, who shared that Henry was one of the first teachers to truly believe in her. A book Henry gifted her in second grade, Pay It Forward, became a lifelong lesson that continues to influence how she treats and uplifts others today.
One of the most heartfelt tributes of the night was shared by Alajah Wesby in honor of Erica Johnson. Wesby described Johnson as a comforting presence both inside and outside the classroom, sharing how she offered support during her lowest moments by sitting with her, praying with her, and speaking truth, hope, and love into her life. She described Johnson as more than a teacher or mentor, calling her a mother figure and a constant reminder that she is seen, supported, and never alone.
Adiela Serralde was honored by Lauri Allen, who shared how her Spanish teacher made learning a new language feel achievable and enjoyable. Through patience and encouragement, Serralde helped build confidence and created a classroom environment that emphasized perseverance and the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Coach Raymond Scott was recognized by Aakayla Murphy for teaching proper and safe weightlifting techniques while also instilling discipline, confidence, and a strong work ethic. Murphy shared that the lessons learned from Coach Scott extend beyond athletics and continue to shape how she approaches life. Coach Dwight Smith was honored by multiple students, including Keenen Kelly, who credited him for pushing him to be better on and off the court, believing in him during moments of self-doubt, and teaching accountability and discipline. LJ Morgan echoed those sentiments, sharing that Coach Smith provided a level of motivation and hope during times when life felt overwhelming.
Cashaunda Smith was recognized by Ja’Reese Williams for her honesty, constant support, and unwavering belief during moments of doubt. Williams shared that Smith’s guidance helped shape how she thinks, communicates, and handles challenges, leaving a lasting impact on her confidence. Ashley Thompson was honored by Tameeyah Kingsberry, who shared that Thompson supported her through difficult times, took the time to listen, ensured she stayed on track academically, and challenged her to believe in herself beyond the classroom.
Educator Appreciation Night served as a powerful reminder of what makes Swainsboro High School and Emanuel County Schools special. The evening highlighted that education is not solely about grades or wins on the scoreboard, but about relationships built on care, accountability, and belief. On a night filled with basketball energy and senior recognition, one truth stood out clearly: behind every student-athlete is an educator who chose to invest, encourage, and believe. Friday night celebrated the game, but more importantly, it celebrated impact, the kind that lasts long after the final buzzer sounds.
