Two Foley educators named District Teachers of Year

Two Foley educators named District Teachers of Year

Amy Barker (right) of Foley Elementary and Ursula Thompson (left) of Foley High School were presented Baldwin County Public Schools 2023 Teacher of the Year awards during a recent banquet honoring each of the district school’s teachers of the year on March 23 at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear. Teachers of the Year from the district’s 45 schools were represented at the banquet.
“To all the TOY winners, you are the reason we continue to be one of the best school systems in the state. Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and for being an example on your campuses,” Superintendent Eddie Tyler told the assembled before announcing the winners, who were selected by a panel of judges. The two Foley teachers will now be eligible for the Alabama Teacher of the Year award.
As noted by South Baldwin Education Foundation board member and children’s book author Linda Spangrud on facebook, in addition to the incredible honor of having two teachers selected as the best in the district, the evening was a celebration of all things Foley.
“Last night Foley stood tall,’’ Spangrud noted. “Not only did the new Foley High School’s Noise Band (under the direction of Jimmy O’Cain) put on a performance that showcased some of the best musical talent of any students anywhere, but the Foley High School Air Force JROTC proudly did the presentation of colors. This was followed by an Invocation by Miss Kasey, a Foley High senior, whose words inspired all of us in the room.
“Not only were our Foley students making us proud,’’ Spangrud noted. “Jeremy Borchardt, a Foley High School teacher, was recognized for achieving National Board Certification, the most respected professional certification available in K-12 education. Congratulations to everyone. Teachers everywhere please never forget how important you are. Hats off to all. We are Foley Proud.’’
Barker has been teaching at Foley Elementary for more than 14 years. First in numerous roles. She was the ARI Reading Specialist from kindergarten through third grade and has been a Grade-Level Chair, Mentor Teacher, Math PLC Chair, Leader in Me Lighthouse team member, Adult Learning Action Team Chair, and STEAM PLC.
Thompson has been teaching at Foley High School since 2017. She was a special education teacher for 21 years at Escambia High School before transferring to Tate High School, her alma mater. She also taught reading to students struggling on the state’s graduation exam.