Sissy Ivy
Position: Culinary Arts Instructor, Grades 10 through 12
School: Sevier County High School
School District: Sevier County School System
City, State: Sevierville, TN
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Sissy Ivy was nominated by a student.
"Do you know people who can do a job efficiently with a positive attitude and have very successful results? We have a teacher among our faculty at Sevier County High School that does just this daily: Chef Sissy Ivy," said the student.
"Chef Ivy joined the Career and Technical faculty of SCHS in the fall of 2006 as a Culinary Arts instructor. For the last seventeen years, Chef Ivy has developed the Culinary Arts course from just a class to an entire program of study. This program is now recognized as one of the top programs in the state. Day in and day out, Chef Ivy teaches her students more than just how to prepare food. While teaching refined cooking skills, she also trains her students to be responsible and how to service others by running her classroom just as a commercial kitchen would run in any business. Chef Ivy's students are running a restaurant, a catering business, and a community food bank," said the student.
"Many of her students have chosen to continue their love for culinary arts by pursuing that degree path at renowned culinary institutes across the country, including CIA (Culinary Institute of America) and the National Center for Culinary Studies at Sullivan University. In the years that Chef Ivy has been here at Sevier County High School, she has helped her culinary arts students ascertain thousands of dollars in scholarships for their postsecondary education," said the student.
"Chef Ivy's love for students goes above and beyond anything anyone could ever ask of an educator. At SCHS, she has created and launched programs that education systems have never even heard or thought of, including the Distance Learning programs between Gatlinburg-Pittman High, Pigeon Forge High, and Sevier County High. Students without transportation are bussed to and from the schools, which allows students from surrounding schools to participate in CTE classes at SCHS. With her outside-the-box thinking, Chef Ivy has also been able to help students without parental support become self-sufficient and successful. She teaches skills such as professionalism, banking basics, community care, and more," said the student.
"Not only does Chef Ivy teach students, but she also serves as a mentor and consultant to other educators and culinary arts programs across the Southeast. She has not hesitated to share her expertise in helping other culinary arts programs get started and grow. Chef Ivy has done so at Northview Academy, Heritage High, Anderson County High, and many more. She has also helped instructors in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan. Other schools visit SCHS Culinary Café regularly to see in real-time the exciting teaching strategies and student successes that are occurring," said the student.
"Chef Ivy does not keep her talents for her students. Instead, she regularly shares them with the community and demonstrates the service side of hospitality. During this past school year alone, she and her students have embarked upon a community service project in which they prepared and packaged 22,000 meals to be delivered to homebound senior citizens in conjunction with Dolly's Senior Center. In addition to this project, Chef Ivy's Culinary Club students work approximately 400 community service hours during their time in the program. Chef Ivy's love of teaching and people is evident, and it shows in all the things she does for the students, school, and community," said the student.
"Over seventeen years, Chef Ivy has impacted hundreds, if not thousands, of students and families all across the U.S. It does not matter what any one person's background is, for she offers unconditional love and support to everyone. Every year, she and her students gather and distribute food and resources to families in need. They even went as far as to fill up their entire classroom and storage area with food and water for first responders and victims of the Gatlinburg Fires in 2016. Chef Ivy has also opened opportunities for students who thought they never had a chance, whether because of their economic background, homelife, health, or identity. She has even urged colleges to rewrite their policies and lawmakers to rewrite legislation so that all students can have the best chance at the life they want. Chef Ivy recognizes that the real world does not offer the same opportunities and chances people need, but she fights tooth and nail to make it as equal as possible. Chef Ivy is a LifeChanger," said the student.
Mrs. Ivey taught our son a few years ago and certainly helped instill very good values. I can't think of a more deserving teacher and friend.
Mrs. Ivy is an amazing teacher and co-worker! She cares about her students beyond the classroom and always makes sure they have everything they need to be successful. Her students have so much respect for her, and it shows immediately when you enter her classroom. She runs an incredible program at SCHS, always helping our students, school, and community. I am proud of Mrs. Ivy for being such a wonderful role model to so many. We are lucky to have her, and I am blessed to call her a friend!
#LCOY
Congratulations!!! on your great honor Chef Ivy. Thank you for all your hard work; thus, our school, district, and community will recognized because of you!! I love celebrating you and your fine efforts. What an exciting time!! Your passion for your students and program is a blessing to all of us at SCHS and our community, We are blessed to have you here.
Mrs. Ivy is a great friend and colleague. She helps the students, faculty, and community in more ways than we can count. I have witnessed first-hand how much her students love and respect her. She is an invaluable part of our school and I treasure her friendship.
#LCOY Ms. Ivey is a tremendous asset to our students, school, community, and even places outside our community. He gives her all and her students are excellent examples of what a great teacher and great love can accomplish. She is highly deserving of this honor!!!
I am so thrilled and excited that my dear friend and colleague, Mrs. Sissy Ivy, has been chosen as a finalist for this Life Changer Award and Recognition. I would like to firmly recommend that she be chosen as the overall winner for this Award and Recognition! Sissy's passion for her students and teaching them skills beyond the kitchen is what continues to inspire all of her students past, present, and future. What she does for our school, our community, and our kids is immeasurable! I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this Award and Recognition! I have seen first hand the impact and the difference she has made on any student that comes across her path. You only have to meet or talk with Sissy for a few minutes to realize and understand the passion she has for teaching and the passion she has to make a difference! Sissy Ivy truly is a Life Changer in every sense of the phrase! Sissy is "Simply the Best, Better than All the Rest!!!"
Though I have only known Chef Ivy for the past few months, I have quickly learned that she is a top notch educator and community member. Her generosity, thoughtfulness, and hard-working spirit are what drives the success of her Culinary Arts Program at our school. She goes above and beyond for her students and co-workers, and it does not go unnoticed. She is so deserving of this recognition!
Chef Ivy is great! A wonderful asset to our school and our county!
Mrs. Sissy ia a dedicated teacher who loves the LORD and her students. Thankful for her!!
Mrs. Ivy has such a positive impact on our students and school! Her culinary arts program is incredible and she goes above and beyond to extend her program into the community. She teams up with local restaurants, colleges, and eateries to provide our students with unique, hands-on, learning experiences. We are so grateful to have Chef Ivy as a part of our Smoky Bear family! She truly is a blessing and deserving of recognition as a Life Changer!
Chef Ivy is a phenomenal teacher at my school and she is extremely dedicated in preparing students for their post-secondary paths. Not only this, she is so passionate about her students and she is constantly a reminder to them that they can accomplish the “impossible.” Her students work incredibly hard to prepare meals for surrounding communities as well as our faculty and staff members at school. Chef Ivy is constantly encouraging her students to reach their dreams. She is truly a life changer, especially for students, teachers, and more. I wholeheartedly can say she is such an inspiration to me, and her hard work does not go unnoticed! #LCOY
Sissy is a true professional and works hard everyday. She is certainly a life changer. #LCOY
Chef Ivy is an amazing educator! She inspires her students and colleagues daily. She helps our students, our school, and our community in so many ways. She is a true Smoky Bear!
She is the most special person! She loves and supports her students, the school and the whole community. The culinary program exists because of all her hard work. She truly has changed many lives and makes my day better every day!
Chef Ivey is so good with our students and she takes pride in her work and in the students ! She is a blessing to SCHS and Sevier County!!!
Way to go Sissy, we are so proud of you!
Sissy Ivy is, without a doubt, one of the most dedicated people I’ve ever known. She demands excellence from her students and they respond. She is not only a teacher, she is a mentor in work and life. She never backs down from something she believes is best fire her students. We need more educators like her!
I can't think of a more deserving person for this award. She has changed more lives than could ever be counted, mine included. The lives of everyone she comes in contact with are instantly changed for the better.
Chef Ivy never stops! She can't stop because her heart is so big. She loves helping people especially teenagers. She is a guiding light to any young person she comes in contact with. What a blessing she is!
I’ve know this lady, Sissy Ivy for 25 years. She is the epitome of a self-less person who goes way beyond the call of the duty to her profession, as well as beyond the call of duty to her community, her colleagues, students, friends and family. This lady is one of a kind and very much deserve this honor, as well as much more.
Chef Ivy has a heart for the students and the community. She takes her students and turns them into responsible and respectful young people. She is much lived by the students, the staff, and the community around Sevier County High School. She teaches her students how to give back positively to her community while also supporting them and giving them opportunities not offered to them otherwise. She is an inspiration to her fellow coworkers and a shining light in the lives of her students.
Congratulations on a job well done … you have touched so many lives!
Sissy is the most sincere dedicated individual to her faith, family, friends and definitely to her students. They are more than just students but precious individuals whom she's loves and strives to help them growth academically and in their personal growth and development.
Sissy Ivy is an amazing person . She is kind to others and loves to help in any way . No one is more deserving than her
I have worked with Mrs Ivy for years! She is a blessing to staff and students. She gives 100% to her students each year! This is such a well deserved honor!
Mrs. Ivy is one of two teachers that got my son through high school! He was not a good student, but he lived for Culinary Class!! 2 years after graduation, and he still looks up to her and carries with him the life lessons she taught him.
I’ve been in Chef Ivy’s class for nearly 3 years now, and every single moment in the class has been absolutely incredible. She has taught me more then any other teacher I’ve had, showing me not only how to cook, but to be a better human being. Between teaching me true respect, and while she does run a tight ship, I think it truly makes everyone in her class a better person.
We love you Chef Ivy and thank you for all you do for us!!
She is the best and changed my life
I had the honor of working in the CTE building with Mrs. Ivy for two years. She is a genuine soul who cares about everyone she meets. I also share the honor of being from the same hometown as Mrs. Ivy. She changes the lives of her students and everyone who has the opportunity to interact with her. She works tirelessly to provide flawless experiences in every endeavor of her life. She holds students to the highest of expectations and helps them rise to be their best. She always checks in with everyone, intently listens and without fail, ends conversations with, "I'll be praying for you." I can't think of anyone more deserving for the life changer award. She is someone who genuinely talks the talk and walks the walk. We are all rooting for you here at SCHS!!
Proud to be Chef Ivys daughter in law! The work she does for her county and state, and her students is incredible. She would do anything for her students and anyone in need. So proud!
Sissy Ivy is kind, joyful, and one of the most genuine teachers I've encountered as a substitute teacher. She is passionate about her subject and her students respond to her!!
Sissy Ivy is one of the hardest working, most compassionate colleagues I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. She demands nothing less than excellence from her students and her colleagues. She goes above and beyond to insure that every student has opportunities to succeed regardless of their circumstances. I cannot say enough positive things about Chef Ivy.
mrs ivy or chef ivy, impacted my life in such a positive way. she helped me with my work ethic gave me responsibilities and held me to a standard like any other job would. but she was much more than that she took care of me on my bad days when things weren’t easy at home and she gave me a shoulder to cry on if i needed it. she showed me i could take my life as it is and have a totally different outcome and outlook on life and because of her i am doing just that!
I don’t even know where to start, I had Mrs Ivy as my culinary arts teacher 3 years of high school. I never would have thought that taking her class would be such a life changing experience. Chef Ivy not only is great at what she does as a culinary instructor, but she genuinely cares about each and every student that walks through her door. Even though I did not peruse a career in culinary arts, there’s not a day that goes by that I regret taking her class. I use her words and wisdom everyday in life and I am so thankful to be able to now call her a true friend. Mrs Ivy truly changed my life for the better!
I was one of Mrs.Ivy’s students when we were still able to call her Mrs. There is so much I can say about her that wasn’t already said, but I can’t express how much she helped me. I had a bad home life going on with no one to talk to about it, Mrs.Ivy made it a safe space for me to talk about it. She also pushed me to my limits, learning different techniques and even bringing in chef’s from everywhere to learn more about college’s, life after high school, and finding ways to get us certified in OSHA training and ServeSafe certified with no charge to the students. I couldn’t thank Chef Ivy enough for completely changing my life and she absolutely deserves this award. I love you Chef and hope you are doing well!
I have volunteered to help Mrs Ivy over the summer to cook for the senior center. I am always amazed at how many students return after graduation to help out. But most of all I have been thrilled to have my daughter be around those students that Mrs. Ivy has touched. They are respectful and very responsible and a testament to who Mrs
Ivy is
She has touched so many students and gave them tools to succeed in life. She has also made me a better person just by her words of wisdom as we work. I went through a rough patch in my life recently and just knowing that she was there got me through it. Words fail in expressing how much she means to everyone she meets. But I can confidently say that you can see Christ working through her.
I love Mrs. Ivy. I have had the opportunity to collaborate with her many times, and love being in her classroom. She runs a tight ship with her students, but she does so in love and they know it! Her students work hard, but they also get to play hard. Her students have a tremendous amount of respect for her and it shows in their attitudes and work ethic. She strives to not only help them reach their potential as future chefs, but also to become better citizens, coworkers, and friends.
She so awesome my kid love her!!
Sissy Ivey is a dedicated teacher who loves her students.
There is no other person more deserving of this nomination than Miss Sissy Ivy!! The lives that she had made a difference in can’t be measured and I truly feel she will have a special place in heaven saved just for her. I work at the Sevier County Office on Aging where we serve over 40,000 meals yearly to our home bound seniors in our community. We were struggling to be able to keep up with the growing meal demands and during a Board Meeting one afternoon, I asked about the possibility of asking the Culinary Arts Program at our local High school to assist us in preparing meals. In that very meeting a phone call was made to the superintendent of the school system and within a month’s time, Sissy and her students were preparing meals, boxing and labeling them for home delivery!!! We provide the food, containers, and labels and she and her students work their magic to provide nutritious, hearty meals to the folks that need it so badly! It’s such a win win for everyone! The students gain food service knowledge, volunteer hours and feel blessed knowing how much their hard work is appreciated!!! Currently, our partnership includes students from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg-Pittman and Sevier County High (90 total students) and one outstanding teacher Miss Sissy Ivy!!! They provide approximately 20,000 meals a year for our program!!! I’m so proud of the work that they do and I’m so thankful for the privilege of having the opportunity to work with such an awesome mentor to hundreds of kids!!! She is amazing and loved dearly!!
A teacher that cares about her students.Mrs. ivy does so much for the school and community she is a blessing to us all at SCHS.Her passion for her program goes so far above what she has to do.Thanks for all you do.
Chef Sissy Ivy, where do I even begin? Your impact on my life has been beyond words. In the toughest moments, you've been my pillar of support, turning my lows into opportunities for growth. Your guidance in the culinary world has been a beacon of inspiration, shaping not just my cooking skills but my perspective on life. Your lessons extend far beyond the kitchen; you've been a mentor, a friend, and a source of unwavering encouragement. In a world where role models are scarce, you stand out as the prime example of what a chef should be smart, adapting, compassionate , skilled, and endlessly passionate about the craft.
As a 19-year-old navigating life's complexities, your teachings have been my compass. Your approachable demeanor and dedication to your craft make learning from you not just educational but genuinely enjoyable. You've effortlessly blended the art of culinary expertise with the warmth of mentorship, creating an environment where I not only excel in the kitchen but also feel a sense of belonging. Chef Sissy Ivy, you're not just a chef instructor; you're a transformative force, molding not just chefs but individuals with a profound appreciation for the culinary arts and life's journey.The world is truly blessed to have and, I was too thank you chef ivy.
She loves what she does and takes great pride in her program and she’s excellent with the students!
If it weren't for Mrs.Ivy I don't think I'd be where I am today. Back in 2017 I was a new student from out of state and she saw something in me because by the beginning of 2018 she asked if I wanted to be on the culinary team to go and compete in the Prostart state culinary competition. Which we won 1st place and won so many scholarships for different colleges. I worked really had to finish her 3 year program in 2 years and then I went off to college at Sullivan University with my entire ride almost completely paid for. Without Mrs. Ivy seeing something in me i don't think I would have ever been able to afford going to college. Without going to college I wouldn't haven't met my now husband and wonderfull kids. It's now been 4 years since I graduated high school and 2.5 years since college and Mrs. Ivy will still text me to check in with me. She has truly impacted my life.
Mess Ivy is one of the most influential teachers that you will ever meet. She cares deeply about her students and her community. She brings students into her culinary program at Sevier County High School with no prior experience and teaches them all aspects of the culinary arts. Her students graduate and go on to prestigious colleges all over the U.S. and and receive thousands of dollars in scholarships. She is also active in helping current students find jobs at local restaurants and eateries. Through her contacts, executives from well-known restaurants come visit her classroom to share their knowledge with her students. Several times a year, her students compete is local, state, and national competitions where they have won many awards. She also finds the time to give back to the community by having her students prepare meals for the local Senior Center. Her students also regularly prepare meals for the faculty and for special occasions such as for annual Veterans Day program. She also notices if there are any students who need food or clothes as she goes out of her way to help needy students. Students work hard in her classes, however, they are well prepared for college or for a job after graduating. To top it off, she is a great colleague as well.
Best at what she does not only a great chef, Great with her students.Loves what she does.She has added so much to the culinary program at Sevier Country High School.Thanks for all you do.So lucky to have you at Sevierville.
I couldn't think of a person more of a life changer than Mrs. Ivy. She embodies the balance of selflessness and professionalism that she strives to instill in her students.
Even though my career interests didn't lie within Culinary Arts, Mrs. Ivy welcomed me into her program for all three years. The love and passion she pours into teaching us and helping countless people is truly remarkable. She has helped me to not only learn to provide for myself but also obtain valuable life skills. More importantly, she gives her support in the hard times when it matters most. Thank you, Mrs. Ivy for not only changing my life but for spreading your kindness to friends, teachers, and members of the community.
Chef Ivy is amazing in school and community. I have seen students change from year to year growing as team players and at life. A friend ask at church one summer for volunteer to help cook meals. My wife and daughter went the first couple of weeks. She told me to come because it was an amazing experience. I guess at first it felt like managed chaos with the leader chef Ivy orgistrating the volunteers in a process to a successful finish with hundreds a of meals ready for delivery. The teams would change day to day but the same result would happen. Needless to say I try not to miss an opportunity to help.
Chef Ivy is blessed and blesses everyone around her.
Chef Sissy Ivy is one of the absolute best! She has so much dedication, passion, love and caring for what she is teaching past and present students. I can personally say I have seen the tremendous amount of work Chef Ivy has put into this program and how much successful it has brought to the community and students. The culinary arts program at Sevier Country High School does many catering events and meal preparations for our community which teaches the students a way to give back to the community and hands on experiences to help progress them with there future of becoming a chef or pastry chef. Mrs.Ivy is truly someone I look up to being one of her previous students because of everything she has taught me in the classroom all the way to life experiences through catering. You are truly an inspiration Chef Ivy! Thank you for everything you have done and continuing to do. You are the “life changer” to not only Sevier County High School but to our community.
Mrs.Ivy shows dedication and strength when it come to feeding others and showing kids how to cook. She takes pride in her work and she isn't afraid to keep going ne cause of her strong values. In my life I have never met anyone as strong-willed, smart, and motherly. Mrs.Ivy is everything you could ask for a culinary teacher.
Sissy Ivey is an inspiring visionary who also follows through with hard work, dedication, discipline and tenacity. She expects the very best from her students and peers and she works hard to make sure they have what they need to be successful. She provides structure and training. She demonstrates for her students that having respect and work ethic will give them opportunities to continue to learn and grow. She speaks life and hope and wisdom to her students daily. As a local business Human Resources Director, I love to work with Ms Ivey on projects and I love to work with her students because I know they have a solid culinary/food safety/guest service foundation and they have mindset to learn and grow instilled in them. I know she has spent much personal time to help students in need and to give them every opportunity to succeed. I believe that Sissy Ivey is absolutely a life changer and I know that her programs have also positively impacted many businesses in our community as well. By changing many lives, she has also positively changed and impacted our community. She is a LIVES CHANGER.
Ms ivy is one of the finest people I know. Her tireless dedication to culinary arts and Sevier County is second to none. She has transformed this high school culinary program to one of the best in the country. She is a leader in her community and is a mentor to many. Not only has she affected professionals in the industry but has transformed the lives of so many students, way above and beyond normal expectations. I can think of no one that deserves recognition more although she would never ask for it. Her only intention is to better the lives of her students.
Chef Ivy is one of the most hard working people I know working nonstop to build this program into what it is to this day and with how hard she works she definitely inspires many people including me to work hard and achieve your goals. she truly deserves this award for how amazing of a teacher she is.
Chef Ivy is a true patriot, an amazing Chef, and a great mentor. She has helped teach and lead students for many years opening their eyes to the Culinary Arts. She has taught students with no background in cooking to being able to preform in competitions and high end restaurants. She makes learning to cook very enjoyable, while instilling professional discipline that is much needed in the real world. She teaches life skills and helps students excel beyond any expectation. She will sit down with any student discussing futures, and showing which colleges would be best. I know I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do without her knowledge. She runs an incredible culinary arts programs, and helps students and people who are in need.
Mrs. Ivy has been a member of the SCHS faculty for several years and is a fine teacher who has grown our culinary program to new heights where students learn the rudiments of food prep and safety before venturing into the community as they refine those skills. Her studetnts earn awards and scholarships and go on to be productive members of the community, and for many, her class is a gateway to local culinary programs as well as famous culinary institutes. Mrs. Ivy and her students support our community by preparing meals for various local groups, including our own SCHS family, proms, meals for shut ins, and others. Thank you for considering Mrs. Sissy Ivy for this award. She and her students are certainly deserving.
Chef Ivy has impacted many lives in her time at SCHS. She works tirelessly with her students to serve others daily. She is very deserving of this award.
Chef Ivy works tirelessly to ensure that all her students receive a top notch education and have numerous opportunities to achieve success through her culinary arts classes at Sevier County High School. Chef Ivy goes above and beyond to make sure her students feel valued and is constantly striving to give her students every opportunity possible to achieve their dreams. In addition, Chef Ivy has made a tremendous impact on our community through her culinary arts courses by providing countless meals to various philanthropic organizations. It is an honor to work alongside an individual who embodies the term "life changer." I cannot think of an individual who would be more deserving of this honor than Chef Ivy.
Sissy Ivy is the pinnacle of education because she is all about her students, her program, and making sure her students are prepared for life beyond high school. Mrs. Ivy does not just teach her students about food preparation, catering, and kitchen rules/etiquette; she teaches them life skills that prepares them for life outside of high school and beyond. Mrs. Ivy's professionalism, her character, her generosity, her love for her students and school, and her colleagues is unmatched! I am proud to call Sissy Ivy my friend, my colleague, and I'm so glad she is a part of our Faculty here at Sevier County High School. The difference she makes in her students' lives is immeasurable and that is why, along with so many other reasons, is why Mrs. Ivy is deserving of this life changer award/recognition. Mrs. Ivy is simply the best!
Chef Ivy is one of the top educators I have had the pleasure of working with. As an educator at SCHS, I have had several of Chef Ivy's students in my Economics and Personal Finance classes. They are exemplary of the work ethics and professionalism that she has instilled in them. She has established her legacy at Sevier County High School and around the country. It is truly an honor to know and interact with such an amazing teacher.
Chef Sissy Ivy is one of a kind! She brings years of culinary experience into the classroom and has dynamically transformed our school's culinary program. She continuously pours herself into her students and the community. We are grateful for Chef Ivy and the blessing she is to our school.
(The Best) Chef Ivy runs an incredible culinary program at Sevier County High School. If you ever have the privilege of seeing her in action in the classroom setting, you will not be disappointed. Chef Ivy has high expectations for her students and has a unique of helping her students reach their full potential. She serves our community whenever she has an opportunity and represents our school and her program well. I am so happy she is a Smoky Bear!
I have had the pleasure and honor to work with Sissy since she came to SCHS. She has been so supporting and encouraging to not only her students, but to the faculty and staff she works with. To watch her work with her students and go to the lengths that she does to help them succeed is truly amazing. Bottom line is Sissy is such an asset to our students, school, and community. This lady goes above and beyond. She deserves to be honored by receiving this great reward! Good luck Sissy!!!
Chef Ivy inspires students and gives them the guidance, tools, and confidence necessary to pursue and accomplish their culinary goals!
I have had the honor of working with Chef Ivy for the past several years. Every single day, Mrs. Ivy gives her all to Sevier County High School and her students. To say she is a Life Changer is an understatement. Chef Ivy works with a wide array of students from various backgrounds. She gives them purpose and helps them find a life long career. Her students are top notch! Her Culinary Arts students learn the value of hard work and determination on a daily basis. They are also taught to always put others first! Chef Ivy is a blessing to us and her students!
Chef Ivy is so very deserving of this award. She is a phenomenal teacher and an amazing person. She is incredibly hardworking, considerate, and selfless. She goes above and beyond for her students and our entire community and does so much for our school and whole community. Sevier County High School is very fortunate to have Chef Ivy!
Mrs. Ivy is an Amazing Chef and an even more Impressive Teacher! I have had the pleasure of working beside her for 9 years now and she is an outstanding model of what all teachers should work hard at becoming. She teaches with great direction, but more importantly is always focused on the most important part, her students. I have always admired her, especially her ability to teach and develop meaningful and lasting relationships with her students. She Truly is a Life Changer. Mrs. Ivy is a Great Person that deserves Great Things, just like this award! Good Luck Chef Ivy!
Mrs.Sissy Ivy is one of the most amazing people I know. A Godly woman that encourages you to be strong; showing kindness and warmth to those in need, and never forgetful of your life's journey and how she might be able to reach out and lend a hand ~ in strength, love, & Godly inspiration~ Always willing to help further educate her students and invest in their futures to help them achieve the goals they have set for themselves. A very hard worker that loves her job and students,
that she whole-heartedly supports. Mrs. Ivy's selflessness and dedication to so many programs for helping those in need regardless of her time away from home says so very much about this beautiful lady~ inside and out~Sissy Ivy, is a woman I am truly blessed to call my friend. To know her is to love her.
We are so proud of Chef Ivy and the many contributions she has made, and continues to make, to our students, school, and community. She has a genuine passion for teaching students and creating opportunities for them to succeed. Chef Ivy positively impacts and inspires students of all abilities and proficiency levels, ranging from students who make top academic marks to students who may struggle academically. Through her program, students who may otherwise be disinterested in school find a passion for learning and pursuing culinary opportunities. As a result, these students' overall academic progress improves. She works tirelessly to ensure that her students are prepared for their college/career journey. Chef Ivy would be a worthy and grateful recipient of this accolade.
I've had the privilege of working with Mrs. Ivy for the past ten years. I've seen her work tirelessly to help students, veterans, senior citizens, and our staff members. Chef Ivy cares about everyone and makes people feel special. She is definitely deserving of this honor!!!
Sissy is a wonder person. Always wanting to help other people and children. She cares a lot about her community. She deserves this very much.
Mrs. Sissy Ivy is one of the most wonderful, inspiring women that I know. She came into my life earlier this year, and she has been nothing less of a light in my life. She has truly made an impact on, not only me, but my entire family. She is truly such a selfless giving soul doing the work of God in this world. Such an amazing woman. It’s a blessing to know her and have her a part of my life. Thank you Mrs. Sissy Ivy for being such a role model to me.
Mrs. Sissy Ivy is very worthy of being honored by her peers and students. You would be hard pressed to find a teacher or an individual who gives and cares for her students and others like Mrs. Ivy. She is a very selfless person, who thinks of her community as well. Giving of her time to help veterans, senior citizens and community projects. She deserves this recognition although she would say other wise.
Sissy Ivy is my mom. I have watched her desire to help others my whole life. I've witnessed first hand her selfless & unconditional love for her family, her students, for senior citizens, for veterans, for underprivileged children, etc. Early mornings, late nights, time away from family, time away from her husband has all been given from the depths of her heart to helps others in need. My mom has secretly helped struggling students & families with food, clothing, shelter, Christmas gifts, Thanksgiving meals, and so much more. Almost every day on her way home from SCHS, she will call me and share her stories of the day, her brokenness for struggling students, her drive for the next program or just the funny stories of the day. My mother is truly a life changer, not only to her students or those that come in contact with her through her job but also to me, her daughter. Sissy Ivy sets a very high standard of love and selflessness that I can only hope to barely come close to in my lifetime. Being her daughter and being able to watch her in all the things she does in an unbelievable honor.
Every day I witness her work ethic, discipline, integrity, kindness, caring, encouraging, philanthropic example with her students. She teaches life skills, not just culinary skills. She gives 125% to her culinary arts program and enriches lives in her community.
I am a former student of Mrs. Ivy, graduating in 2017. When I first started her program my sophomore year, I was so shy and timid. While she did teach me about cooking, she also taught me so much more. She taught me confidence in myself, as well as how to be a leader to others. By the time I was a senior, I was President of the program. She definitely helped shape me into the person I am today. While she is no longer my instructor, she is still a dear friend of mine. I don’t know a better person to be nominated for this award.
Mrs. Ivy is a phenomenal teacher. She gets the most out of her students and pushes them to achieve their best. She has a true care and concern for them as people outside of being a student.
She is the most life changing teacher I’ve ever had. She has pushed me beyond what was expected and showed me the true culinary world.
I commend Chef Ivy for going above and beyond and using her talents to inspire the next generation in education, giving, and the spirit of community. I feel she is very deserving of this recognition.
Mrs. Ivy epitomizes a true educator. She embraces all students. As director of the Culinary Arts department at Sevier County High School (SCHS), she imparts wisdom and skill building to her students, who then earn prestigious awards because of her investment in their futures. She also gloriously combines students from three high schools as part of the distance CTE education initiative in Sevier County. Many students from neighboring schools travel via bus to the vocational center to attend her classes. Once enrolled, they are hooked. They give up other elective opportunities to continue in her program of study. I am the lead counselor at Gatlinburg-Pittman High School (GPHS), and although Mrs. Ivy teaches at SCHS, she connects with me when my students need assistance, encouragement, or direction. She ensures that the GPHS enrollees are fully involved in the program even though they are not SCHS students. I appreciate her acceptance of the learners and admire the productivity that she generates from her classes. Furthermore, Chef Ivy is a highly decorated educator, but in the midst of her well-deserved accolades, she is most humble. She acknowledges that learning is a life-long process, and she continues to invest in her own education as well as that of the students.
Whether it is helping to fundraise for the high school with the food that they make, being asked to serve food at a public event, volunteering to feed the staff on certain administrative days, or winning competitions with her students at various baking events, Ms. Ivy has made a positive impact on this school, community and students. She has been the epitome of a professional and the model that she sets for the students in the area of serving your fellow neighbors is what you would want in a teacher with your child. To be nominated by a student for this award just serves as proof that she is making a difference in her students lives. Congratulations on the nomination as it is well deserved.
I will never forget during my son’s first semester of Culinary, he came home and told us that Mrs. Ivy had a talk with the boys that day. It has began with a young man professing that he had a crush on another young woman in the school. Mrs. Ivy sat with them and told them, “I know the girl you’re talking about, and if you want to get a girl like that you’re going to have to shape up!” She proceeded to spend the rest of class talking about how they should treat a young lady, and what girls actually like in a boy. Mrs. Ivy is not o Lu teaching the culinary arts, but she is a second parent to her students. She honestly loves them as if they were her own. My son graduated in 2022, and will still call my son to have him come help with some events!
Sissy Ivy is the best person for this dedication. She not only is
quite knowledgable person in her field, but also a life friend to those she knows. I graduated from SCHS 3 years ago now but she still keeps in contact with me to make sure I am okay. I had a rough last year dealing with my Crohn's Disease Diagnosis and she was the first one to check on me and had everyone in her classes support me in my time of need. I will always remember that and that made my scary week in the hospital alot easier. She changed my life from a nervous future to a bright hope at learning and being a teacher myself
Sissy Ivy is a colleague of mine. I can’t say enough about everything she does for our students. She fights relentlessly for her students, demanding excellence and giving back the same. Her culinary program receives top awards every year and her students attest to her dedication to them and to the school. I can’t say enough about all she does for Sevier County High School and the culinary arts program.
I worked with Mrs. Ivy while teaching at Sevier County High School. I can’t say enough positive things about Mrs. Ivy going above and beyond for her students! I’ve watched her take students for school visits when there was not a parent willing to go. I have watched her make sure her students have the tools necessary to meet their needs and reach their goals. She is absolutely amazing!
As the former principal of Pigeon Forge High School, I can personally attest to the tremendous positive impact that Mrs. Siisy Ivy has had on the PFHS students who have been a part of her culinary program. The distance CTE program, which allows our students to travel to Sevier County High School to participate in programs like culinary arts, has been an incredible benefit to our students and school. In addition to be an amazing chef, Mrs. Ivy is also a student-centered educator who is focused on preparing students to be successful in college and their future culinary careers. Her program has been an effective pathway that has helped multiple students achieve their college and career goals. She would be a well-deserving recipient of this honor, and I commend the student or students who nominated her for this. Go Tigers!
As the bookkeeper of Chef Ivy's public high school, I have witnessed her taking a shoestring budget and creating a creative and rich learning environment for her culinary students. All materials used in culinary education are expendable goods, requiring constant procurement of food items for the students to prepare. We all have witnessed the rising costs at the grocery store; however, Chef Ivy manages to stretch her dollars to exceed the instructional standards of her program. Regardless of the cost of her program, Chef Ivy's generosity touches all aspects of our school as she has contributed countless meals/food items to our staff, students, and community. Chef Ivy leads our culinary program to prepare and box all Meals on Wheels distributed to senior citizens throughout our county. She donates her time and resources to provide an annual Veteran's Day luncheon with the high school's yearly veterans program. She has generously provided several faculty and staff meals, including Christmas luncheons. She exemplifies hard work and kindness in her classes, and her students are challenged to succeed. Chef Ivy resonates life change throughout the students in her program which ripples into the culture of our school.
Chef Ivy impacts students each day. She supports her school and community in numerous ways, and is very generous with her knowledge, talents, and time.
She is great with our students !! She cares and is a great teacher!!!!
Chef Ivy is not just a teacher she helps to change lives. Many students that could care less about being at school use her class to find direction. They become excited about school and find a direction for their future in Culinary Arts. This program has become a model not only schools in Sevier County but surround Counties. I live in Jefferson County and serve on the County Commission I told our former Superintendent of schools about our program and they are modeling their new Culinary Arts classes after Chef Ivy's program.
Ms. Ivy takes tremendous pride in her students and in her program. Her students represent the best of the best, and they leave her classes prepared to move forward in their culinary arts education and careers. Ms. Ivy is deserving of recognition for all the love and energy she pours into her students!
Thank you for all that you do for your students! I really enjoyed your class and was actually excited to come to class every day. I am very thankful for passionate professors like you! “We all love Mrs.ivy”
Thank you for all that you do for your students! I really enjoyed your class and was actually excited to come to class every day. I am very thankful for passionate professors like you! “We all love Mrs.ivy”
She is a very good teacher and cook. She is very easy and laid back but also makes sure to keep people in line when it's needed. I have fun in her class every day even when things can be busy.
Chef Ivy has helped me with skills I never knew I needed.
Mrs ivy is such a sweet and wonderful teacher she is so caring and loves feeding the elderly and shut in. She is so organized and knows how to precisely cut and prepare things. She pushed me to cook more than just beef she helped me learn how to cook with chicken.
Mrs. Ivy is a great teacher that cares for her students and everyone who helps her and she helps more than she needs to.
I have never known a teacher to work as hard as Mrs.Ivy does or who is as caring as she is. I can’t count the number of students who she has helped, whether it’s getting them food for them and their family, to helping them get into college.
Mrs. Ivy is one of the greatest parts of my life. She's motivated me to become a greater person than I could've ever imagined. She's such a hard worker and has completely changed my life for the better. She's truly a LifeChanger.
Chef Ivy is a very awesome teacher! I have learned so much in her class.
Chef Ivy is one of my favorite teachers I’ve had so far, her jokes light up any room.
I have never known a teacher to work as hard as Mrs.Ivy does or who is as caring as she is. I can’t count the number of students who she has helped, whether it’s getting them food for them and their family, to helping them get into college.
She helps see elderly and shut in and the Veterans. She's the best at what she does. She's always willing to have a helping hand.
She is giving me the opportunity to learn more. I feel more confident in the kitchen thanks to her.
Mrs.Ivy is a great teacher who helps everyone and the community.
Chef ivy always thinks about others especially our community and our veterans.
Chef Ivy is a great person and taught me how to use a knife.
She has taught me a lot of things in a very short amount of time that I will use forever she is a great teacher and great person
Chef Ivy is as wonderful as an instructor and a chef. When I came into culinary arts, I didn't know much about cooking, but know I have confidence in my culinary skills and experience due to Chefs' guidance
Cooking is my favorite hobby, Chef Ivy makes it even more fun!
mrs ivy deserves this life changer of the year, she really does make a difference and she teaches amazing leadership skills even though she is very loud and yells a lot we still love her.
Chef ivy has been the best teacher I have ever had in my whole school life. She has helped me through so much and I am only a white coat, I can not wait to go through the next 2 years of culinary with her teaching me. She deserves this award and so much more with how much she works and how much money she has spent on not only us but everything.
Nobody truly can measure how far-reaching Ms. Ivy's world has become. A great cook and educator, she's also an advocate for programs outside of Sevier County High School. The main accomplishment I can speak to is her support of the meals-on-wheels type ministry provided through the Sevier County Senior Center. I'm talking thousands and thousands of meals provided EVERY YEAR.
I had the privilege of working with Ms Ivy for 7 years at Sevier County High School. Not only is she an amazing teacher, she is one of the most caring individuals I have ever known. She took a genuine interest in every student and accepted the challenge to insure the success of each one. It was amazing to watch "her kids" bloom with confidence through her guidance. I'm very proud to call her my friend and very proud of the positive impact she has had on hundreds of students and community members.
I'm thankful for Chef Ivy, what a wonderful difference she makes, too everyone around her.
I don’t know where i would be without Mrs.Ivy. She genuinely cares for her students and only want what’s best for them. She will always be my favorite and most inspiring teacher i’ve had!
Ms. Ivy is an amazing teacher! Such a wonderful and passionate teacher that influences the students around her in such amazing ways! Our culinary department is unlike any other and has instilled a passion in many of our fellow students’ hearts. Thank you for what you do for our school Ms. Ivy!
Ms. Ivy is a great person, and has by far one the best culinary departments there is!!
She has definitely made an impact on the young lives in Sevier county. Her students love and adore her. She cares greatly for each one and wants them to become the best person they can.
Mrs. Ivy has been one of those blessings in my life I would never trade for. She has helped me throughout my high school years with everything. She’s one of the hardest workers I know, not only I’m I proud of who she is but I’m so proud to say she’s my mentor. She encourages not only students, but people in the community who see her contribution to those in need. She is more than a LifeChanger.
She is one of my favorite teachers. I can’t thank her enough for teaching me how to be a better chef and person. let’s go Chef Ivy
I am proud to be Chef Ivy’s translator. Go Chef Ivy!
Mrs. Ivy is a great teacher who cares for her students and wants to see every one of them succeed!
She is changing students lives day by day we love having her as a teacher.
She is the best teacher ever and she made me be able to cook.
Best teacher very deserving of this.
One of the best teachers I’ve had the joy of learning from!
10/10 best chef/teacher who builds good memories and brings experience to the art of cooking.
10/10 best chef/teacher who builds good memories and brings experience to the art of cooking.
Changing lives one potato at a time Chef Ivy for president
Chef ivy taught me to walk
Thank you for being the best teacher and guiding me, I miss you being my culinary teacher.
Changing lives one potato at the time
Chef ivy is the reason i am graduating and going to walk on the stage we love you chef ivy and thank you
She knows more about me then she should, and has taught me more then any other teacher
Literally changing lives one potato at a time
