Central Gwinnett High School teacher honored with Goodheart-Wilcox Outstanding Service Award

     The Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) Future Health Professionals organization has recognized a teacher at Central Gwinnett High School (CGHS) with the Goodheart-Wilcox Outstanding Service Award. Amanda Baker, CGHS Health Science teacher and recipient, has been the advisor for her HOSA chapter for 11 years and was recognized as HOSA’s Georgia State Advisor of the Month for January 2025.

     “It’s truly an honor to be recognized for my work with HOSA,” Baker shares. “While I dedicate many hours to our chapter, it never feels overwhelming—because HOSA is more than just an organization; it’s a family. Our local chapter, along with others across the state, provides a space for collaboration, support, and growth that extends far beyond the classroom.”

     The award, sponsored by GW Publisher, is given to one local HOSA Chapter Advisor who has consistently upheld HOSA’s mission of progress, promotion, and development, which led to her selection for the honor.

Baker says that her HOSA chapter is special because of its sense of belonging and the direction it provides to students.

     “We've hosted countless guest speakers, certified over 200 students in Stop the Bleed, built parade floats, hosted blood drives, completed national recognition weeks, and more—all while creating a space students can genuinely call home,” Baker says. “Our chapter has proudly seen students advance to Internationals in categories like Prepared Speaking, Biomedical Debate, and Pathophysiology. Watching them grow and succeed on such a large stage is one of the most rewarding parts of being a HOSA advisor.”

Discover more about HOSA at your school on the district website.