U.S. Rep.

Mac Collins recently welcomed to Washington three Georgia

teachers who were named to USA TODAY's first All-USA

Teacher Team.

The three educators,

including Newnan Alternative School teacher Dr. Camella

Williams Scott, join 26 other teachers who were selected

from across the country by the newspaper. USA TODAY says

the team parallels the All-USA Academic Team, which has

been selecting outstanding students since 1987.

"These three teachers

represent the best in their profession, not only for

their dedication, but for their creativity in designing

programs to help children," Collins said. "Each

has started an important program that teaches children

both in the classroom and outside. It goes without saying

that each of these teachers developed their program on

their own," said the Jonesboro Republican.

"These programs were

developed in Columbus and Newnan, not in some

bureaucrat's office in Washington, D.C." Collins met

with the teachers. One is from Newnan.

Scott, a 23-year teaching

veteran, teaches at the Newnan Alternative School, in

Newnan. She concentrates on children who have been sent

to the school from juvenile justice departments or who

have been expelled from other schools. She teaches middle

and high school students English literature and law.

She introduced Cease Fire,

which operates a juvenile video courtroom. Students

assume the roles in the court of the judges and lawyers.

They even film the proceedings and conduct open hearings

so other students can see what happens.

When students have

altercations in the school, they are hauled into

"court" to be judged by their peers, says

Scott. This helps them learn to handle conflict without

violence, and to resolve differences without fighting.

"They coined the phrase, `Don't hold a grudge -

take it to the judge,'" said Scott.

Scott says the innovative

program enhances her students' desire to become a part of

the judicial system.

"They are tired of

being on this side of the court, and want to be on the

other side of the court," she said. "This

teaches them to think on their feet, research the law,

and gives them practical skills."

Newnan Alternative school

has 150 students and 12 teachers, and specializes in

working with students on a more individualized basis than

most schools. Most students attend the school for

nine-week stints. The innovative program has landed Scott

many awards, as well as an appearance on Japanese

television.

"These teachers have

given a lot to the children they have worked with over

the years. They have given to their communities. I want

to thank them publicly for their effort, and thank USA

TODAY for providing them with this public

recognition," Collins said.