MADISON – Nikki Griffin appreciates her fellow teachers and co-workers who have recognized her hard work. Griffin is 2020 Teacher of the Year at Madison Elementary School.

Griffin was surprised to receive the honor. “I don’t do this job for the awards or recognitions, but I work with a great group of people. We truly are a family,” she said.

Griffin believes that all students can learn. “You just have to meet them where they are,” Griffin said.

In addition, Griffin and her colleagues definitely discovered during the pandemic that connecting with students is a group effort. “We found that out during the last few months of school. It wasn’t always easy but by working together, we made it through,” Griffin said.

When this past school year began, Griffin had a student who she knew might have some challenges. “We did have some but, I can honestly say, the good days outweighed the tough ones. I was very pleased and proud of the progress made,” she said.

Griffin earned associate’s degrees in both computer information systems and elementary teacher education at Calhoun Community College. She then transferred to Athens State University and received a bachelor’s degree in education.

At her church, Griffin serves on the Finance/Count Committee. “Through the women’s group at my church, I have helped assemble weekend snack packs for an area school. I also help out with the children’s ministry,” she said.

Each year, schools in the Madison district select Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year for exemplary service. The Central Office and Transportation Department also select a Staff Member of the Year.

Winners are presented $500 and become eligible for districtwide honors announced at the beginning of the next school year.