Franklin County teacher to be featured on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt

You can watch it Thursday night on 6:30 p.m.

Franklin County teacher, Anthony Swann, speaking to Lester Holt on "Nightly News" on Dec. 17, 2020. (NBC Nightly News)

If you tune in to NBC’s “Nightly News” on Thursday night, you might see a familiar face talking to Lester Holt.

Anthony Swann, a fifth-grade teacher from Rocky Mount Elementary, will be featured on the popular newscast for its tribute to teachers.

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[‘Teach for the love of your children’: Franklin County teacher named Virginia Teacher of the Year]

The Franklin County teacher was recognized as the 2021 Virginia Teacher of the Year back in October.

Swann gained notoriety for his commitment to his students by creating an inclusive environment and supporting his students’ social and emotional health.

When Holt questioned him about his approach to teaching, Swann answered: “So every day I see my children, I affirm them. And — I’ve taken this — this saying from the movie called ‘The Help.’ And every day, I have them to repeat that, ‘I am smart. I am kind. And I am important.’ And so I just let them know that sometimes in life you’ll experience challenges, but remember that you’re smart.”

To catch Swann’s segment, watch “Nightly News” on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 6:30 p.m. You can also watch it here.


About the Author:

Nicole Del Rosario joined WSLS 10 in August 2020.