A moment that might not feel like a big deal to an adult can be the end of the world for a first grader. Or a curious thought can lead to a very interesting classroom discussion. 

No pancakes for breakfast? Devastating. How much does a cloud weigh? Let’s discuss.

Reese Finnie, a first grade teacher at Bruns Avenue Elementary School, said it’s those interactions or questions that make building relationships with his students simple.

“If you talk to the kids like you do any other person, then it makes them super comfortable and willing to come up to you with small things that they think are a huge deal,” said Finnie. “Because in all honesty, they’re 6 and 7 years old. So it is a big deal to them. So it’s a big deal to me.”

Finnie was recognized as the 2025-26 Beginning Teacher of the Year for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in May, a recognition that he considers the “tip of the iceberg” in his career.

“I’m still in shock,” said Finnie. “It’s amazing. If I could go back in time, I would thank everybody in this school. It would be a very long speech.”

Finnie said the best word to describe his first year in the classroom is “interesting,” but he said he fell into a groove pretty early. Every morning, he gets to the school parking lot early. And while he sets his classroom up for the day, he puts on music and gets what he needs ready before the students arrive.

“It was nerve-wracking the first week,” Finnie recalled. “But I think being super prepared is key. Just knowing what I’m doing that day is probably the best way to get over me being so nervous.”

Finnie said the support from staff at Bruns has also been instrumental in his first year.

“Any questions I have are answered like that and with complete honesty,” said Finnie.

“Throughout his first year, I have had the privilege of mentoring Mr. Finnie and observing his professional growth,” said Krystal Rambert, a first grade and an expanded impact 2 teacher at Bruns. “He consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to meeting the diverse needs of his students and fosters an environment that supports their academic, social and emotional development.” 

“Mr. Finnie has done an amazing job as a first-year teacher,” said Principal Nicki Dudley. “He has taken a vested interest in each of his students and has a strong belief in their ability to succeed as young learners!”

As Finnie reflects on the year and what he’s looking forward to next school year, he’s been able to boil teaching down into two parts: Do what he’s told and care about the kids.

“There’s nothing left. It covers everything,” said Finnie. “I want my students to feel like they have somebody that they not only learn from but that they can also talk to. Being consistent with them and being here every day and showing them that it doesn’t matter what’s going on at home. When you’re in my classroom, you have somebody who you can genuinely talk to — at recess, lunch or whenever. You can come talk to me.”