Teacher receives $50,000 Harbor Freight award

Scottie Cook, Ag Mechanics teacher at Alexander Central High School, was presented a rolling tool chest this week and a $50,000 award ($35,000 to ACHS and $15,000 to Cook) as one of 25 teachers honored across the United States in the Tools For Schools Prize For Teaching Excellence. Cook, the only NC teacher chosen this year, is shown above, right, with Harbor Freight District Manager Marcus McNair.

A large assembly, a surprise for Cook, was held in the school auditorium on Tuesday, September 30, to announce the award. Several local, regional, and state officials were on hand to give remarks and congratulate Cook on his 25-plus years of service in the program, equipping Career and Technical Education students to excel and go into the workforce. Cook has secured significant grant funding (including a $64,000 state grant) to acquire modern, industry-grade equipment such as a CNC plasma table, CO2 laser, sawmill, skid steer, and upgraded welding tools, greatly expanding student learning opportunities. Cook’s students have achieved regional and state-level FFA honors, including a first-place state finish in 2024.

In 2022, ACHS Carpentry teacher Josh Bowles received an identical award from Harbor Freight.

State and local elected officials and education leaders joined students and staff to honor Alexander Central High School Ag Mechanics teacher Scottie Cook during an assembly in the auditorium, complete with cheerleaders and band, on September 30, 2025.