Jefferson County Announces Teachers Of The Year

JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL — In a school year that has been perhaps one of the most difficult to navigate in recent memory, the Jefferson County school system recently announced the teachers selected as Teachers of the Year for 2021.

Leah Singleton of Chalkville Elementary School and Jacqueline Thomas-Edwards of McAdory High School are this year's honorees.

"We are extremely proud of both of these teachers. They set the standard for teaching in our district," said Superintendent Walter Gonsoulin. "These individuals make a difference in students’ lives every single day. They both personify what it means to be JEFCOED Strong."

Singleton, the Gifted Specialist at CES, has 17 years of teaching experience, the last five of which spent in her current position.

"She is committed to building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues," Gonsoulin said. "In her role as a Gifted Specialist, she strives to provide her students with meaningful, relevant lessons while developing their individual talents and providing support for their distinct social and emotional needs. She continually pushes her students to take risks, cope with perfectionism, and persevere through challenges."

Thomas-Edwards teaches AP, Advanced and General Chemistry at McAdory. She has 16 years experience in education, and has been at McAdory since 2016.

"Jacqueline’s planning of various STEM virtual and in-person field trips is another way her students learn through real-world connections," Gonsoulin said. "Her love for science and education has allowed her to present lessons she has created with teachers from around the world at the National Science."