06/15/2026
We are excited to celebrate August Howerton, a member of our church family, who has been selected to participate in the 2026 Go Global NC Global Teachers Program, an immersive professional development experience in Southern Africa from June 23-July 4.
August teaches 4th grade at Jackson Park Elementary School in Kannapolis and was recently honored as the 2025 Kannapolis City Schools Teacher of the Year and a 2026 North Carolina Southwest Regional Teacher of the Year Finalist. Through the generosity of the Hayes Charitable Trust, August will join a group of North Carolina educators traveling to South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia to learn about education, culture, sustainability, conservation, and community development.
During the program, participants will visit schools in both rural and urban communities, explore historical and cultural landmarks, and learn how educators and community leaders are working to empower the next generation through education, stewardship, and service. The experience will also include visits to iconic locations such as Johannesburg, Chobe National Park, the Zambezi River, and Victoria Falls.
August hopes to bring these global perspectives back to the classroom, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world and their role as compassionate, informed global citizens.
Please join us in congratulating August on this incredible opportunity and praying for safe travels, meaningful learning experiences, and lasting connections as preparations begin for this transformative journey.
