Bluff Park Teacher Drives Away With Top Honor!

Katie Collins, a phenomenal first-grade teacher from Bluff Park Elementary, just snagged the title of Alabama's 2025-26 Teacher of the Year! The big reveal happened at a school assembly that went absolutely WILD!

A New Ride for a Shining Star

Picture this: Kids chanting "Mrs. Collins!" as Jimmy Parnell, president of Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation, hands over the keys to a brand-new 2025 Chevy Traverse. Talk about a perk! Alfa is even covering the insurance, so Mrs. Collins can cruise around the state in style as Alabama's education ambassador.

A Dream Come True!

"What an honor!" exclaimed Collins. "Never in her wildest dreams would the 6-year-old version of myself, who wholeheartedly knew she was destined to be a teacher, dream up being here today as Alabama Teacher of the Year."

Two Decades of Dedication

Collins isn't just some newbie; she's a 20-year education veteran. Before inspiring young minds at Bluff Park, she taught French and English at the middle and high school levels. She even co-founded the Communities Family Literacy Program, which started small and now helps ESL families all over Hoover City Schools.

Tending the "Garden" of Education

Collins sees her school as a "garden," where she and her colleagues nurture students' growth. "We show up, weathering the harsh conditions and true difficulties that come with this garden," she said.

Championing Student Well-being

As Teacher of the Year, Collins will travel the state advocating for public education. She plans to shine a light on student mental health and promote classroom experiences that build independence and resilience. "I believe student engagement is the heartbeat in the joy of learning,” Collins stated.

A Statewide Celebration!

Out of over 150 applicants, Collins stood out! State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey praised Collins as a model educator. "She is a true advocate for education," Mackey said.

Collins will now represent Alabama in the National Teacher of the Year Program. Way to go, Mrs. Collins!