While many educators spent the summer recharging, Buncombe County Schools Teacher of the Year Ana Kearney of Charles C. Bell Elementary School continued doing what she loves most — bringing children together through literacy, creativity and community.

Kearney recently hosted a free reading and craft event at Appalachian Community Relief, a nonprofit founded by her sister, Allison, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. What began as a small neighborhood hub distributing drinking water and emergency supplies has since grown into a thriving community relief center serving local families.

During the event, Kearney read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” to children before leading them in a hands-on craft inspired by the beloved story. The gathering brought smiles to familiar faces, as several of Kearney's former students joined the fun alongside new friends from the community.

For Kearney, the event reflected the same values she brings into her classroom each day.

As a teacher who works closely with Charles C. Bell Elementary's Deaf Education Program, Kearney is passionate about creating an inclusive learning environment where every child feels welcome. She regularly teaches basic American Sign Language to hearing students, helping them communicate with their deaf classmates and making classroom activities more engaging and interactive for everyone.

That commitment to inclusion extended beyond the school year as children of all backgrounds came together to listen, learn and create.

By partnering with Appalachian Community Relief, Kearney demonstrated that learning doesn't stop when school lets out. Whether in the classroom or the community, she continues to inspire a love of reading while building meaningful connections that help children feel seen, supported and included.