The Athens High School halls were filled with Golden Eagle Spirit Wednesday, April 23, as faculty and students celebrated Amanda Gudmundsson on being named to the final four for the 2025-2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year. Gudmundsson in the Top 2 for Secondary Teacher of the Year.

The Government, Economics and History teacher was first selected by her peers as the Athens High School Teacher of the Year in September 2024. She was then honored as the Athens City Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year in November 2024. She was also recently named the 2025–2026 Alabama VFW High School Teacher of the Year for her outstanding work promoting citizenship and patriotism in the classroom.

“This honor reflects not just my journey, but the strength of the incredible people around me. Great teaching is never done alone — it’s the product of shared passion, relentless support, and a community committed to lifting each other higher every day,” Gudmundsson said.

Originally from Georgia, Gudmundsson has more than twenty years of experience in education, with 17 years in Athens City Schools. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from the College of Charleston, a Master of Arts degree in History with a focus on Secondary Education from the University of Montevallo, and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. She believes teaching goes beyond the subject matter; that it involves building meaningful relationships and lives.

Gudmundsson went on to say, “Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this journey. I’m truly honored and hope to represent Athens High School and Athens City Schools with the excellence, pride, and dedication that define our community.”

The 2025-2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year will be announced on Wednesday, May 7. For more information about the Alabama Teacher of the Year program, visit the Alabama State Department of Education’s website at alabamaachieves.org.