MADISON – First-graders are learning the basics from a teacher who is committed to increase communication between student families and herself. Stacy Branson is “Teacher of the Year” at Heritage Elementary School.

“I began my teaching journey here at Madison City Schools as a first-grade teacher in 2017,” Branson said. Her work has been solely with first-graders. “I am a sustained reading tutor for first-grade students in an after-school program provided by the district.”

In leading her class, Branson believes that “cultivating positive relationships is crucial with students and families to promote effective classroom management.”

This year, Branson’s students have worked diligently on a research project. Each student created his or her own poster. Then, her students presented the poster to their peers. Branson recorded the scenes and shared the activity with the students’ families.

“I received my Elementary Collaborative K-6 degree at Athens State University. Currently, I’m working towards National Board Certification, and I am enrolled at the University of West Alabama to earn my master’s degree in Elementary Instructional Leadership,” Branson said.

She is originally from the St. Louis, Mo. area.

Her husband Rome and she have been married for 23 years. Rome works as a Research Technician for the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Their daughter Haley, 22, attends Jacksonville State University. Their son Tyler is 17 years old and is a student at James Clemens High School.

“One interesting fact about me is that I enjoy creating and making things for my home from thrift stores and yard sales,” Stacy said. “In my free time, I enjoy spending time on the lake with my friends and family.”