Special to the
Opelika Observer
Auburn High School teacher Jacque Middleton was named Alabama’s Alternate Teacher of the Year during a recent ceremony.
By the age of 11, Middleton had lived in three different cities and had already attended four different schools. She always found real comfort in her schoolwork, and no one in her family was surprised when she decided to pursue a career in teaching K-12 science and STEM classes.
She now teaches engineering courses at Auburn High School and sponsors local science olympiads, engineering fairs and other innovative academic events. She promotes student success through technology. Having grown up in many different regions of the United States, she has gained a unique prospective on teaching. She has seen the true value of exposing students to engaging learning experiences.
Alabama’s Teacher of the Year spends the majority of the school year serving as a spokesperson for education and the teaching profession, as well as presenting workshops to various groups statewide. Additionally, Alabama’s representative is a candidate for the National Teacher of the Year Award.
State Superintendent of Education Eric Mackey said it is an honor to join in the recognition of these exemplary educators. “Teachers of the Year are highly skilled and dedicated professionals who work hard to ensure the future prosperity of our great nation. These educators have shown Alabama’s students, parents, and local communities a wonderful example of educational excellence and commitment,” Mackey said.
Weeden Elementary teacher Ana Carolina Behel was named the 2019-2020 Alabama Teacher of the Year during the ceremony and will serve as the official spokesperson and representative for teachers in Alabama for the next year.
