Anthony Martin Named Sandhills Region TOY

Anthony Martin ’17 Ed.D. has been named the 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year. Dr. Martin is a career and technical educator at East Columbus Junior/Senior High School.

“This prestigious recognition celebrates his outstanding dedication, passion, and excellence in education,” the district wrote in a press release announcing the award. “Dr. Martin’s commitment to his students and the community sets a remarkable example of teaching at its finest.”

Martin had over 20 years of experience in public education, including work in administration and as a contract consultant for the NC Department of Public Instruction, before entering the classroom as a technology, engineering and design instructor. He also holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in Educational Administration from UNCW’s Watson College of Education.

When he began teaching, East Columbus didn’t offer any programs related to computer engineering or technology support. Over the past three years, he has built a technology-focused program, introduced drone courses and created a Student Tech Team, giving students hands-on experience and an opportunity to strengthen their technology skills while providing support to their school.

As an educator, Martin believes in integrating practical, real-world applications into all subjects to create engaging, student-centered learning environments, focusing on helping students connect their learning to the world beyond the classroom and preparing them for future success.

He actively promotes teacher recruitment and retention through innovative programs and outreach initiatives and is an outspoken advocate for streamlining the residency license program, making it easier for people to enter the teaching profession and strengthen North Carolina’s teaching workforce.

“Dr. Martin works with a remarkable commitment to global learning,” said Watson College Professor Donyell Roseboro. “I first caught a glimpse of this commitment when we traveled to South Africa together on a study abroad trip during his doctoral program at UNCW. As we ended our visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, he commented in a blog post, ‘It was not what I expected. In many ways. The theme was not...look what bad things happened here, but let's celebrate unity and the triumph of human spirit.’ This thoughtful approach to learning who people are and what inspires them is what I have come to admire in Dr. Martin.”

Martin will now advance to compete against eight other educators statewide for the 2025 North Carolina Teacher of the Year title. The winner will be announced in April.

Recent News and Announcements

• NC DPI, February 10 NC Teacher of the Year Finalists Announced
• Columbus County Schools, January 14 Dr. Anthony Martin – Burroughs Wellcome Sandhills Teacher of the Year!
• WECT, December 18 Southeastern N.C. teacher brings home Region Teacher of the Year award
• WWAY, December 17 East Columbus teacher named Sandhill Region Teacher of the Year