Unassuming yet gifted teen named STAR student

Noel Feeney calls Harlem High School's STAR student "every teacher's dream."

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Earlier this month, Erin Logue was named the school's Student Teacher Achievement Recognition student, choosing Feeney, an advanced placement literature teacher at the school, as her STAR teacher.

"Erin Logue is one of the most gifted and talented individuals I have met in my many years of teaching," Feeney said. "Although she is quiet and unassuming in her demeanor, when she contributes her thinking and skill, she radiates energy and enthusiasm."

Erin, the 18-year-old daughter of Chris and Kim Logue, of Harlem, is humbled by the STAR student honor.

"I was surprised and excited," she said this week from her home. "It makes me feel really good."

When asked why she chose Feeney as her STAR teacher, Erin said, "She makes our class so exciting. She's so excited about what she teaches us and makes us excited to be learning."

Feeney said teaching a difficult piece of literature can often be overwhelming for her students. However, her approach is to allow the discussions to be student-led, with the most important rule being that the teacher does not participate in the discussions.

"There is a pause in the class ... the first question is offered to the inner circle of analysts, and then, this petite, soft-spoken young woman speaks up, expounding articulately, thoughtfully and persuasively on this complex allegory," Feeney said. "Wow! She knocks your socks off! That's Erin Logue!"

Feeney said being named the STAR teacher is the "Academy Awards of teaching. You can't get any better than that!"

Feeney said her STAR student "generates a feeling of good will in every setting in which she participates."

Erin, a member of the school's beta club, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Young Women of Excellence and drama team, has applied to several top-notch colleges. She has her sights set on going to Berry College in Rome, with North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega as a backup.

"I haven't decided on my major yet," she said.

Regardless of what she studies, Feeney expects great things out of Erin.

"Erin has a bright and opportunity-filled life ahead of her because she is an individual who leads through hard work and example," she said.