October 15, 2025

Chattanooga Honors Teachers at Heritage Center Event

Chattanooga, October 15, 2025

News Summary

The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center hosted a special event to honor two outstanding educators from Hamilton and Whitfield Counties. Haleigh Van Allen received the Katie Fields Bell Teacher Fellow award, and David Veve was recognized as the first General B.B. Bell Teacher Fellow. Each awardee received $1,000 to support their teaching endeavors. The event underscored a commitment to excellence in education and community health with local initiatives like free flu shots being offered soon.

Chattanooga Celebrates Educators at Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center

Two exceptional teachers from Hamilton County and Whitfield County received prestigious fellowship awards at the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Haleigh Van Allen, a dedicated educator from Normal Park Museum Magnet in Hamilton County, was honored with the 2025 Katie Fields Bell Teacher Fellow award, while David Veve from Whitfield County Schools earned the distinction of being the first recipient of the General B.B. Bell Teacher Fellow award.

As part of their recognition, each awardee received a monetary gift of $1,000 to be utilized for classroom necessities or opportunities for professional development. This financial support aims to enhance teaching resources and enrich the educational experiences for students.

About the Teacher Fellowship Program

The Teacher Fellowship Program hosted by the Heritage Center included a total of 18 Teacher Fellows from both Tennessee and Georgia this year. Participants in this program are expected to commit for an entire year, during which they will receive compensation for their involvement. The fellowship facilitates a variety of enriching activities, including:

Engaging in book studies
Field excursions along historic routes
Crafting innovative lesson plans
Participating in professional learning opportunities

At the conclusion of the fellowship, educator workshops allow the fellows to introduce the lessons and activities they have developed, sharing their newfound knowledge and strategies with peers.

Health Initiatives in the Community

In addition to recognizing educators, the Hamilton County Health Department is proactive about community well-being, offering free flu shots on October 21. This initiative underscores the significance of health and wellness in the local community. Residents seeking further details regarding the flu shot event and other health initiatives may contact the Hamilton County Health Department for more information.

Conclusion

The recognition of educators and the promotion of health initiatives demonstrate a commitment to both educational excellence and community wellness in Chattanooga. As local educators continue to influence and inspire, initiatives like these highlight the importance of supporting both teaching professionals and public health efforts.

FAQ

What awards did the Hamilton County educators receive?

Haleigh Van Allen received the 2025 Katie Fields Bell Teacher Fellow award, and David Veve was named the first recipient of the General B.B. Bell Teacher Fellow award.

What is the monetary recognition associated with the fellowship?

Each awardee was presented with $1,000 to be used for classroom needs or professional development.

How many Teacher Fellows participated this year?

The Heritage Center’s Teacher Fellowship Program involved 18 Teacher Fellows from Tennessee and Georgia this year.

When are the free flu shots being offered?

The Hamilton County Health Department is offering free flu shots on October 21.

Key Features of the Event

Feature	Details
Awards	Haleigh Van Allen received the 2025 Katie Fields Bell Teacher Fellow award; David Veve is the first recipient of the General B.B. Bell Teacher Fellow award.
Fellowship Program	Includes 18 Teacher Fellows from Tennessee and Georgia, with a year-long commitment.
Funding	Each awardee received $1,000 for classroom needs or professional development.
Flu Shot Event	Free flu shots offered by Hamilton County Health Department on October 21.