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Wlaf1450
By Charlotte Underwood
CARYVILLE, TN (WLAF)- We’ve all had that teacher who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute one of our hard working educators with a weekly feature. Teachers make a difference in their students lives each and every day. For many students, having a teacher who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation.
This week’s featured educator is Eric Wright. He teaches music at Caryville Elementary School.
“Eric Wright, our music teacher, does an excellent job. He works tirelessly preparing the students for performances.” said Caryville Elementary Principal Melton.
Wright grew up in Anderson County. He has been an educator for 22 years.
“The end of May 2025 will complete my 18th year teaching in Campbell County schools. I am currently teaching full time at Caryville Elementary School, but I have also taught music in previous years at White Oak, Elk Valley, Wynn, Jellico, and Valley View,” Wright said.
He also serves as a part time minister of music.
He credits his mother with being the main inspiration for following a career in teaching.
“I was a teacher’s kid and helped my mother after school prepare her classroom for the next day. In my late twenties I realized that God was calling me to teach,” Wright said.
At the time, he said he didn’t realize how much “joy and fulfillment ” his decision would bring.
According to Wright, his favorite part about his job is “sharing positive experiences” with his students.
“I get to join them when they are playing instruments, singing, moving, creating, smiling, laughing and exploring. Music, when shared with others, builds strong and positive relationships that will last a lifetime,” Wright said.
He said that while there can be tough times as a teacher, prayer and friends get him through it.
“There are times when teaching is tough. Poor health, stress, family issues, misunderstandings and negative people can be draining. The first thing I do is pray and then remind myself of why God has me there. It also helps to have teacher friends and students that cheer you up,” Wright said.
Nothing pulls him out of a negative state faster than a student giving him a hug and saying, ‘I love you, Mr. Wright.’
“I love all my students, my coworkers, and teaching. God has blessed me with a great career,” Wright said.
Every Thursday, WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features the WLAF – Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week. That educator also receives a free oil change from Eagle Tire Pros. To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-01/23/2025-6AM)