Colham Ferry Elementary School second-grade teacher Bill Nelson couldn't fight back tears Thursday evening as Superintendent Jason Branch announced he'd been selected as the system-wide Teacher of the Year for 2013.

The announcement was made during a banquet at the Civic Center held to recognize all ten individual school winners. The event was sponsored by the Oconee County Schools Alumni Association.

"It's amazing. I'm in shock," Nelson exclaimed following the ceremony. "I can't believe that I've been chosen.  There are so many good teachers here in Oconee County that -- why me? I'm humbled, I'm in awe and I'm in shock." Nelson added that the honor is the highlight of his seven-year career at CFES. Prior to joining the CFES faculty, he taught for one year at Oconee County Primary School, according to a news release.

One person that wasn't surprised was his wife Julie. She said she witnesses her husband's passion and dedication on a daily basis.

"He works all summer and he's always thinking about new ways to use technology."

Nelson was chosen by a selection committee comprised of former Teachers of the Year.  The committee conducted interviews with and observed the classrooms of each of the ten nominees.

A representative of Gwinnett Federal Credit Union presented Nelson with a crystal apple and a $500 check.

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