AARON PREJEAN, a teacher at Hardy Middle School in Jackson, is the American Board Mississippi Teacher of the Year. As one of the first teachers to arrive and one of the last to leave each day, Prejean serves as a model of character and responsibility to his students at Hardy Middle School in Jackson, Mississippi. ANTONIUS CALDWELL, who nominated him, said, “Mr. Prejean’s legal education allows him to provide guidance and perspective to students in dire need of a moral compass.”
A Mississippi native and past head football coach at Jackson State University, former U.S. Secretary of Education ROD PAIGE said, “The one thing that makes a classroom work; a dedicated and well-trained teacher.” Prejean is a great example. He uses classroom technology such as interactive polls to engage his students, with achievement levels increasing by over 15 percent in his first year.
“Aaron brings a unique perspective into the classroom,” said SHAWN ARÉVALO McCOLLOUGH, President and CEO of the American Board. “He incorporates technology that truly inspires learning, and he’s a great role model.”
This American Board Teacher of the Year award honors alumni who exemplify the organization’s belief that the inspiration to teach comes from a commitment to the community and the desire to make a difference.
“American Board teachers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom,” said McCollough, a former superintendent of schools in Georgia and Arizona. “I understand the challenge of recruiting and retaining highly qualified teachers. More importantly, I recognize the value of finding teachers like Aaron and the other state winners who truly care about their students and community.”
For more information on the state winners, click here.