Dylan Busby dylan@silsbee-bee.com The Silsbee Bee SILSBEE — The Silsbee Educators’ Legacy Scholarship will honor Charlie and Sherry Woodard as its 2027 honorees, continuing a program created to recognize longtime Silsbee educators while supporting local students. The honorees will be introduced during an event starting at 3 p.m. May 13, 2026, at the Silsbee Ice House. The event will also recognize 2026 honorees Fred and Linda Miller, who will have two scholarships awarded in their names to Silsbee High School seniors. The scholarships are presented to students who demonstrate devotion to school, community, family and classmates, along with a strong work ethic. Former Silsbee Principal Gaye Lokey will introduce the 2027 honorees, Charlie and Sherry Woodard, both of whom have deep ties to Silsbee education and community service. Charlie Woodard spent 31 years with Silsbee ISD as a coach, science teacher, head football coach and athletic director. His career was shaped by a commitment to students, athletics and community. Known for emphasizing accountability, integrity and respect, Woodard helped guide generations of students both on and off the field. Even after retirement, Woodard has remained active in supporting Silsbee athletics and preserving local history through efforts such as the Wall of Honor. He was inducted into the Southeast Texas Coaches Association and was named Silsbee Citizen of the Year in 2025. Sherry Woodard built a career across education, health care and community leadership. After working in nursing and earning her biology degree, she taught biology, anatomy and physiology in Silsbee while completing her master’s degree. She later helped Lamar University develop its RN nursing program before returning to Silsbee ISD as Director of Health Services, where she led programs supporting student health. Her service later included work with the Texas Nurses Association’s Nurse Oncology Education Program and three years as executive director of the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce. The Silsbee Educators’ Legacy Scholarship was founded by Lokey and several Silsbee alumni to help seniors who worked while attending high school expand their educational opportunities. Organizers hope to build an evergreen scholarship funded by alumni and the community to support students for generations. Donations may be made by contacting Lokey or visiting the scholarship’s website. https://www.silsbeeeducatorslegacy.com/