Cherokee Bend’s Corgill named to final four for state Teacher of the Year

Cherokee Bend Elementary School teacher Ann Marie Corgill has been named a final four candidate for the 2014- 2015 Alabama Teacher of the Year.

The other three candidates are Ellen Anson of Rocky Ridge Elementary School, Christopher D. Payne of Dothan High School and Carrie Jones of Hewitt Trussville High School.

 “The final four candidates are shining examples of educators who have devoted time, attention and love to the education of students in Alabama,” State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice said. “They have given all their energy and expertise to help prepare students for the world.”

Corgill originally set out to design and build homes, but she opted instead to create and construct firm foundations for students to stand on as they learn, grow and become successful contributing members of society.

“Day after day, year after year, I realize that my job is not simply about teaching, but reaching students by learning about them, honoring their passions, helping them overcome obstacles and building foundations so that they can achieve their goals, both as learners and people,” Corgill said.

Cherokee Bend Elementary Principal Betsy Bell said Corgill’s efforts to develop and cultivate a nourishing environment for young learners “is far beyond anything that I have ever seen in my 34 years of being an educator.”

Corgill believes that by seamlessly integrating social and emotional learning into current academic standards, educators can teach children self-management skills, responsible decision-making, and ethical problem-solving. The National Board Certified Teacher received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Alabama. She has served as the featured speaker at several education conferences throughout the state and nation and is a member of the National Council of Teachers of English. She currently holds a position on the Council’s Elementary Section Steering Committee.

The next step for the final four is an extensive interview with the state judging committee. The 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year will be revealed at a ceremony hosted by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education on May 14.

Alabama’s Teacher of the Year spends the majority of the school year serving as the spokesperson for education and the teaching profession as well as presenting workshops to various groups. Additionally, Alabama’s representative is a candidate for the National Teacher of the Year Award.