Danny Jarrett, a teacher at West Charlotte High School, has been named Charlotte Post 2010 Educator of the Year.

Jarrett, a native of Chicago, graduated from Butler University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He has been working in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools since 2004 and is a candidate for National Board certification. He also was a 2010 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Teacher of the Year finalist.

At West Charlotte, Jarrett is the U.S. history team leader. He developed a turnaround plan to improve the school’s U.S. History End-of-Course test scores. After implementing the plan, the scores increased from 48 percent in 2006-2007 to 81 percent in 2008-2009.

The classroom was not Jarrett’s first goal; at one point he dreamed of becoming a millionaire by age 35. He spent time at IBM and owned a fast-food franchise. But nearly 13 years ago, he went to the classroom.

“Teaching is not a job or a career to me, it’s my purpose,” Jarrett said. “I get to make a difference in my students’ lives and they can make a difference in mine.”
In addition to teaching, Jarrett addressed discipline concerns at West Charlotte by implementing a school-wide monitoring initiative to keep students safe. He also leads the school’s award-winning academic quiz bowl team.

“Mr. Jarrett’s ability to inspire and connect with our students is remarkable,” said Principal Shelton Jefferies. “He sets the bar high for our students and they live up to his expectations.”

He will receive his award on Sept. 18.
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Editor's Note: Names in the News is a celebration of achievement. Email news and announcements to editor@qcitymetro.com.

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