By Mary Wilson

Alabama’s 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year Dr. Andy Jackson was given the green light to drive off in a brand new Chevrolet Traverse following a Sept. 10 press conference at the Alfa Insurance home office in Montgomery.

Thanks to Alfa, the fourth-grade teacher will cruise in style as he uses the car throughout his reign as Teacher of the Year.

“Teachers are so important when it comes to educating and inspiring the next generation,” said Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell. “We’re proud to partner with the Alabama State Department of Education to offer a vehicle to our state’s Teacher of the Year for the 24th consecutive year. I’m confident Dr. Jackson will make us all proud as he represents Alabama during this academic year.”

Employed at Eden Elementary School in the Pell City School System, Jackson is a National Board Certified Teacher who also has a background in special education. He and his wife, Sheree, are dedicated foster parents who have adopted children.

“It is truly an honor to represent Alabama’s educators,” Jackson said. “The only thing constant in education, and often in life, is change. Education continues to evolve through research, technology and resources. But helping children learn and develop their own sense of individuality is still at the core of education. While there will always be challenges and growth opportunities in front of us, I am confident educators, families and communities will continue to rise to those challenges for the benefit of all children across our state.”

Jackson was one of more than 150 highly skilled educators nominated for the award. The Alabama State Department of Education whittled nominees down to the Top 4 in July and announced Jackson as Teacher of the Year during an Aug. 13 board meeting.

As Teacher of the Year, Jackson will serve as an official spokesperson for education. He is also Alabama’s official candidate for the National Teacher of the Year award.

“Dr. Jackson represents the essence of what a great educator is all about,” said Dr. Eric Mackey, state superintendent of education. “Through his professional accomplishments, as well as his personal life, Dr. Jackson walks the walk and demonstrates the true determination necessary to be a teacher and a leader. He not only has the mind of an educator — he has the heart. We look forward to him serving as a representative for the teachers of Alabama and being a strong, resolute example of what hard work, commitment and caring can yield.”

In addition to the car, insurance coverage is provided by Alfa Insurance with costs covered by the Alabama Farmers Federation. For more photos from the car presentation, check Alfa Insurance’s Facebook page.