This is the 17th and final installment of Q&As with the teachers who have been selected as Teachers of the Year at Limestone County Schools. 

Name: Anna Thompson

School: Alabama Connections Academy 

Grade Level(s) Taught: 1st Grade 

Subject(s) Taught: All core subjects 

Degrees and Granting Institutions, Special Certifications and/or Training: 

— Bachelors in Elementary Education and Pearson Leadership Academy Graduate 

How many years have you been in education? 

I have been in education for 5 years. 

How many are with Limestone County Schools? 

I have been with Limestone County Schools for 3 years.

What makes you proud to be an educator? 

As an educator, I’m incredibly proud to see my students grow in confidence and ability as they overcome challenges and reach their goals. Witnessing the moments when something clicks for a student is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I find joy in helping students who struggle in traditional school settings rediscover a love for learning in our online environment at Alabama Connections Academy. I firmly believe that education has the power to open doors for students who may not have as many opportunities, making my role in their learning journey even more impactful. Knowing that I contribute to their success and excitement about learning is deeply fulfilling and reinforces the positive changes I can bring to their future.

What has your experience in the education field taught you? 

Through my years as an educator, I’ve learned that teaching is as much about listening and understanding as it is about instructing. Each classroom experience has deepened my empathy and taught me the power of recognizing and nurturing individual potential.

What do you enjoy most about working for Limestone County Schools?

What I enjoy most about working for Limestone County Schools is the strong sense of support from Dr. Shearouse and the board. Their unwavering commitment to Alabama Connections Academy underscores their dedication to providing diverse educational models and flexible learning pathways. This allows us to serve students across the state, aiming for a brighter future for both Limestone County and Alabama as a whole. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a community that is so supportive, enabling us to foster innovation and contribute to educational growth throughout the region. We could not do it without their support. 

How do your students inspire you?

My students inspire me daily with their resilience and enthusiasm for learning. Observing their growth and seeing them tackle challenges with determination reminds me of the impact education can have. Their success is a constant reminder of why I chose this profession and motivates me to continuously improve my teaching methods to better support their journeys.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy traveling, camping and spending quality time with friends and family. 

What is your favorite quote? 

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” — C.S. Lewis

The Alabama Teacher of the Year Program honors and recognizes excellence in the teaching profession by identifying outstanding classroom teachers at local, district and state levels. The Teacher of the Year Program is open to any public school classroom teacher, librarian, counselor or other certified individuals in a K-12 setting.

The Limestone County Schools System honored each Teacher of the Year at the annual Teacher of the Year Banquet held on Monday, Dec. 2. The Limestone County Schools District-Level Elementary (K-6) and Secondary (7-12) Teacher of the Year, along with the Educational Support Person of the Year, was announced at the special event. These teachers will then represent Limestone County Schools in the Alabama Teacher of the Year state competition.