Cherokee names teacher of year

John Murnan of Etowah High School was recently named Cherokee County's Teacher of the Year. Murnan, a science teacher, describes himself as a "relentless optimist" who is constantly thinking about how he can do a better job in the classroom. “I look for new resources, not only in what I teach, but how I teach. I also learn from my students," Murnan said in his application for the award. He is a 24-year teaching veteran who has spent the last seven years at Etowah, where he is also a soccer coach.