MADISON – Karly D. Beavers, who teaches world history in standard and pre-advanced placement classes, is 2020 “Teacher of the Year” at Discovery Middle School.

“My first thought was, ‘You called the wrong person!’” Beavers said. “Winning was completely unexpected, so I was overwhelmed and in shock.”

“I’m fortunate to work with so many dedicated, talented teachers at Discovery who inspire me daily. To be nominated was a huge honor,” Beavers said.

Beavers received a bachelor’s degree from Sewanee: The University of the South and a master’s degree in secondary education from Samford University. Previously, she taught at Daphne High School and Litchfield Middle School in Gadsden. She has worked for Madison City Schools for four years.

Currently, she is Social Studies Department Lead, member of Ellevation Pilot Team and a teacher mentor. She has served on committees for writing, middle school transition and communication. She volunteers with Scholar Bowl Team and encourages volunteering to National Junior Honor Society members.

As an educator, Beavers strives “to create an environment in which students are excited to learn, inspired to explore and challenged to push themselves and refine their critical thinking skills. Positivity, humor, encouragement and love are paramount in my classroom.”

“Building relationships with students is what drives my teaching. Relationships established (before) virtual learning continued during these unprecedented times,” Beavers said.

Beavers describes teaching as a reciprocal process. “I learn from my students daily. Being open to new ideas and asking my students to give feedback also proved helpful as we navigated this new way of learning together.”

This year, one student impressed Beavers with his creativity, kindness and determination. “Long before our switch to virtual learning, he excelled in his classes and as NJHS President. He is always positive and encouraging to his classmates and teachers.”

In virtual learning, the student’s determination inspired Beavers. He continued with NJHS officer meetings, service projects and virtual elections for 2021 officers.

“He and his sister filmed news segments at home to share with classmates and teachers. He encouraged me to meet with advisory students virtually,” Beavers said. “He did this while completing all of his e-learning assignments. When positivity was needed more than ever, this student stepped up as a leader and continued to encourage and inspire with kindness.”

At Beavers’ home, her cat, Fannie Lou, is Discovery’s “unofficial mini-panther.”