Top Students Turn the Tables to Honor Teachers at Greenbriar Dinner

It's less than a month to graduation, so  seniors are looking toward the future.

But each year, asks students to look back on their education and find that teacher who has made the most difference to them.

The hosts a dinner to congratulate students and thank teachers for their work. This year the dinner was April 25. 

The restaurant invites the top 3 percent of the graduating class, those students in turn invite a teacher who has made a difference in their education.

"We've been doing this about 10 years," said Greenbriar general manager Suzanne Summy. "We coordinate with the Johnston High School secretary to set a date since it's a busy time of year for graduates."

Summy said the idea of the dinner came about as away to honor academics at the high school.

"We do a lot for the Johnston schools, whenever one of the sports teams gets into a state tournament we invite them to come, we thought we should do something for academics, too," she said.

Emma Henry, a senior, invited her first-grade teacher to this year's dinner.

"… She is my favorite and most memorable teacher I've ever had," Emma said. "In elementary school she gave me a passion for learning and I've had it ever since."

Emma said Heikes always made learning fun for her.

"She also taught me that I can do anything I set my mind and I've held this belief all throughout school," she said. "Mrs. Heikes made everything fun and I'll never forget her. She's one of the few teachers I've kept in contact with throughout the years."

The event includes a private dinning area, a complimentary meal and desert, Summy said.

"It's a little more of a formal basis," she said. "They are always really excited. Some have said they were chosen by students several times and always feel it's quite an honor."

Emma said the dinner was a nice way to recognize and thank teachers.

"All of the teachers were there for a reason, because they have inspired a student to be their best and reach their potential," she said. "Every single teacher invited to this dinner has done something special to stand out to the student that invited them. Without Mrs. Heikes I'm not sure I would be the same person that I am today."