Teachers from local and area school districts were recognized during the recent Excellence in Education Teacher Awards.

Sponsored by Phi Delta Kappa and Mississippi State University-Meridian Campus, nominations for these awards were accepted from area principals, administrators, fellow teachers, parents and students.

Susanne Shelby of St. Patrick Catholic School was nominated by Kathy McDonnell, a parent, who said Shelby's dedication and hard work deserve recognition.

"She goes above and beyond her teaching requirements, spending countless hours after school and on Saturdays to ensure each child's success," McDonnell said.

Shelby responded, "I am devoted, dedicated, and extremely passionate about my work.  Every day is a blessing. Basically, I love my job." 

She continues to seek new ideas and techniques.

"I am rarely satisfied and research new ideas continuously," said Shelby.

  Poplar Springs Elementary School teacher Elizabeth Lang was nominated by her school's principal, LaVonda Germany.

“By having a love for teaching, then sharing that love with her students and teaching her students how to love one another regardless of their differences, Beth Lang is truly a teacher who is making a positive contribution to her students,” Germany said.

“Optimal student learning is achieved from activities where the whole child’s needs are addressed, said Lang of her teaching technique. 

"I meet these needs by collaborating effectively with stakeholders and viewing myself as a lifelong learner and doing what is necessary to further my knowledge in the ever-evolving field of education,” Lang said.

Marsha Stoddard, who teaches at West Lauderdale Middle School, was recognized by Kevin Cheatham, principal, for going "above and beyond the call of duty to lead and inspire her students to achieve at and beyond their level of comprehension.”

Stoddard said she strives to have each student use their talents to full potential, as well as their strengths to develop other areas. 

"I convey to my students that I believe in them," Stoddard said. "If they are not being successful, I evaluate my practices to see what strategies I can improve upon or change.”

  West Lauderdale High School teacher Dana Huffman was recognized for her enthusiasm for teaching by Carol A. Weems, principal.

“Mrs. Huffman is an extremely vivacious, energetic, teacher who shares her many talents within the classroom to provide students with an exciting learning environment,” said Weems.

Huffman commented that important components in education are often forgotten.  "It is easy to become mesmerized by new demands being placed upon the classroom teacher," she said. "However, as teachers, we must not forget about the most important element in the classroom, the student.”

  Sheila Scott said one trait that makes her an effective teacher at West Lauderdale Elementary School is her ability to recognize positive qualities in each of her students.

"I choose to see the abilities and minimize the disabilities,” Scott said.

Her principal Linda Dulaney also credits Scott's commitment to her success in teaching.

“Mrs. Scott demonstrates tireless dedication in her efforts to create optimal learning opportunities for her special needs students," Dulaney said. "She never accepts that her students cannot perform and produce at their highest potential.”

Quitman Junior High School Principal Minnie Dace recognized Jennifer Hammond as a "true professional," possessing all of the qualities necessary to be successful in the teaching field."

"She is a truly valued teacher on our staff,” Dace said.

Hammond takes her profession very seriously, noting that teaching is not for the faint of heart. 

"One must have a ‘calling’ in order to be successful in such a demanding job," she said.  "Teachers have to wear many hats throughout the day in order to accomplish the many tasks they are assigned.”

  Philadelphia Elementary School teacher Stacie Collins said an exemplary teacher strives to pay close attention to how the lessons will impact the lives of students.

"(An exemplary teacher) seeks ways to improve the role of teaching, and considers how to approach challenges in education,” she said.

Lee Ann Fulton, principal, commended Collins for always demonstrating "an understanding and empathy for her students and parents as well as a friendly and courteous attitude toward her peers.”

Barbara Richardson of Clarkdale Attendance Center said she "must" give her students opportunities "to be creative, use higher-order thinking skills and communication skills that will allow them to be contributors in tomorrow’s society.”

Cheryl A. Thomas, principal, said Richardson's love of children and dedication to their success is apparent in all she does. 

"She treats each student as an individual and works hard to meet the needs of every child,” said Thomas.

Clarie Murphy, who also was nominated by West Lauderdale Elementary School Principal Linda Dulaney, referred to the words of a popular rock song when speaking of the satisfaction she derives from teaching.

“You know, Mick Jagger was wrong. You can get satisfaction," Murphy said. "To see students learn, to see that light bulb of knowledge come on, to see former students that have graduated and are happy, productive citizens – that is satisfaction.”

Dulaney described Murphy as having an overwhelmingly prominent ability to motivate her students to learn. 

"Students often enter Mrs. Murphy’s classroom moderately excited about school and the prospect of another school year," Dulaney said. "When they leave her classroom, they are transformed!”