21-03-2025
Jefferson County Schools announces teachers of the year
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT) — Jefferson County Schools announced the district's teachers of the year for 2025- 2026.
Leslie Miller Chatta, from Pinson Elementary School, and Shernell Lewis, from Hueytown Middle School, were both awarded with the honor.
Chatta is Pinson Elementary School's STEM teacher. According to Jefferson County Schools, she has been in the teaching profession for over 30 years. Prior to taking on the role of the school's STEM teacher, Chatta taught second grade. She has been a Lead Mentor, an E-team leader, and she has served on various committees for Jefferson County Schools. Chatta has also helped implement programs that promote and ensure student success.
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Lewis, who teaches 8th grade physical science, is in her seventh year of teaching in Jefferson County Schools. She has earned a certificate from the National Insitute for STEM Education for STEM teaching. According to Jefferson County Schools, Lewis' goal is to be the founder and CEO of a STEM program that would provide students with opportunities to grow academically and socially as they pursue STEM-related content and careers.
'Both of these teachers have set the bar incredibly high. They are the example of what teachers should strive to become. Both of them bring their best every day, to get the best out of their students. We are grateful for their unwavering commitment to education, and we are blessed to have them in our district,' Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools, said in a statement.
Chatta and Lewis will both proceed to compete for Alabama Teacher of the Year.
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