Huntersville, NC (April 21, 2026) - The Lake Norman Chamber honored three local educators at the 2026 Education PowerLuncheon held at Northstone Country Club in Huntersville. The event, presented by Atrium Health and sponsored by Cornelius Today, and WSIC featured Melinda Bales, former Huntersville Mayor who spoke about workforce development and career readiness and shared information about the Chamber’s Journey 360 program.

2026 Board Chair Leah Trowbridge presented the Educators of the Year to a Charlotte Mecklenburg School (CMS), Charter School, and Private School teacher. Assisting in the presentations were Melinda Bales and Brandi Jones, co-chairs of the Chamber’s Education Collaborative.

The recipients included: Mrs. Angie Phillips – William A. Hough High School; Mrs Madelyn Daggerhart Alston – ASPIRE Trade High School, and. Mrs. Amy Thomaston – Lake Norman Christian School. Novant Health – Huntersville Medical Center received the “Inspire our Future Award” for its efforts in career readiness. A detailed description of each educator’s accomplishments can be found on the chamber’s website at www.lakenormanchamber.org

Mrs. Angie Phillips – William A. Hough High School

Ms. Angie Phillips exemplifies excellence in education through her instructional expertise, inclusive leadership, and enduring commitment to student growth and community engagement.

With nearly three decades of experience across elementary and secondary education, Ms. Phillips has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of teaching and learning. At Hough High School, she serves students through AVID, Global Seminar Leadership, and leadership‑focused coursework, where she intentionally connects academic learning to real‑world application. Her work prepares students not only for graduation, but for meaningful participation in college, careers, and civic life.

Ms. Phillips is especially recognized for creating authentic learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Through initiatives such as AVID’s “Project: Interviewing,” she partners with local professionals, higher education representatives, families, and community members to provide students with hands‑on career readiness experiences. These opportunities build confidence, communication skills, and professional awareness—skills that students routinely apply to employment, internships, and postsecondary opportunities.

Mrs Madelyn Daggerhart Alston – ASPIRE Trade High School

New schools typically experience growing pains in the first few years. It takes an educator who is willing to go a little farther than most to remain diligent in the work while the “kinks” are ironed out. Madelyn Daggerhart-Alston is a new educator currently in year one of her EPP program and a legacy teacher at Aspire Trade High School. She is the epitome of what an administrator would want educators to be: hardworking, and passionate about educating, impacting and shaping lives. As our school navigated many transitions, Madelyn has remained steady and focused, drowning out the background noise and keeping students the priority.

LaFrieeda writes “What stands out to me most is how good she actually is as a teacher and employee. I did not realize that she was a beginning teacher in the first year of her EPP program because she is extremely effective in the classroom with minimal management or oversight. Lesson plans are always prepared, expectations are clearly communicated, and her classroom is managed well. She never has behavioral calls, never removes students from her room, and has a special connection with each student which allows her to gain their respect and in-turn see them accept accountability for their grades and actions.

She thinks out-of-the-box as far as connecting real life and real world experiences to her social studies content, whether it’s reenacting the battle of Gettysburg on our lawn with students dressed the part or if it’s tying culture such as music, art, fashion, etc. to the lessons to make them memorable and alive. She has a 98% pass rate across her classes and works diligently with students across multiple content areas.

In addition to student support, Madelyn serves as the Dept. Head for Social Studies, the FAC coordinator, she is a member of the School Improvement Team, a tutor, a trusted adult in the building and has advised on a number of clubs and events.”

Mrs. Amy Thomaston – Lake Norman Christian School

Amy Thomaston of Lake Norman Christian School exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an outstanding educator, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to both academic excellence and the personal growth of her students. Throughout the school year, she has created a classroom environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Mrs. Thomaston is known for her innovative and engaging teaching methods, incorporating hands-on learning, real-world applications, and collaborative projects that make lessons both meaningful and memorable. She skillfully adapts her instruction to meet the diverse needs of her students, ensuring that each learner is seen, valued, and equipped for success. Her ability to build strong relationships fosters confidence and encourages students to take ownership of their learning.

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Thomaston goes above and beyond by investing her time in mentoring students, communicating with families, and contributing positively to the school community. Her passion for education is evident in everything she does, and her influence extends far beyond academics—shaping character, instilling perseverance, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.

For her unwavering dedication, creativity, and profound impact on her students, Amy Thomaston is truly deserving of recognition as Educator of the Year.

Novant Health - Huntersville Medical Center - "Inspire our Future Award"

Novant continues to set the gold standard for what it means to be a true education partner. Through their unwavering commitment as our Presenting Sponsor of both the Junior Leadership and Adult Leadership programs, they have opened doors for countless students to explore careers in the medical field.

Their investment has not only fueled the next generation of workforce talent but their dedication goes beyond just business success—most recently hosting our Journey 360 program providing students and teachers a hands-on approach to the medical profession. From empowering young professionals with real-world experience to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, they embody the spirit of this award.