A.C. Reynolds High School social studies teacher Annali Silver is making an impact both inside the classroom and beyond. Now her hard work has resulted in her recognition as Buncombe County Schools’ 2026-2027 Beginning Teacher of the Year. 

The Beginning Teacher of the Year honor recognizes an educator in their first or second year who demonstrates exceptional skills in the classroom, builds meaningful connections, and contributes to the school community. Ms. Silver embodies those qualities through her dedication to her students and her involvement at A.C. Reynolds High School. 

“Ms. Silver is an exceptional Beginning Teacher as she demonstrates a ‘students first’ attitude in her teaching,” said Beginning Teacher Coordinator Carol O’Connell. “She builds positive relationships with her students and genuinely enjoys teaching.”

That student-first approach shows itself in the relationships Ms. Silver has built with those she teaches each day. 

“Ms. Silver is a very nice teacher, and she always gives a lot of helpful information,” said Sophomore Cora. “Ms. Silver’s class is one of my favorites!”

“Ms. Silver really tries to help you as much as she can,” said Freshman Khai. “She really strives to be her best.”

In addition to teaching social studies, Ms. Silver serves as the coach of the women’s volleyball and softball team at Reynolds. Whether she is leading students through a lesson or encouraging student-athletes on the court, she brings the same commitment to helping young people learn, grow, and succeed. 

Principal Ben Alexander said Ms. Silver has already made a lasting impression on the Reynolds community. 

“What impresses me most about Ms. Silver is the impact she has made in a short amount of time at Reynolds,” Mr. Alexander said. “She carries herself like a veteran educator. I am incredibly proud that she chose to invest her talents, time, and so much of herself in our kids and Big Green Country!”

For Ms. Silver receiving the Beginning Teacher of the Year honor is a meaningful milestone early in her career. 

“This really means everything to me,” Ms. Silver said. “I am really proud of my kids, they are the reason I was able to do this. Buncombe County Schools has been nothing but supportive to first year teachers.”