Every school in the Pell City School system selects a teacher who exemplifies the best in education. Those chosen from each school are then voted on a system-wide level, one for elementary and one for secondary education, before going to represent the Pell City School System in the statewide Alabama Teacher of the Year.  

“Laycie Lambert does a phenomenal job with our students,” Dr. Tony Dowdy, Pell City High School Principal said. “So many of her students have left the program and done very well, some becoming teachers themselves.” 

Lambert teaches agricultural science at Pell City High School and is the FFA sponsor. This year the faculty and staff nominated and voted her 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year. During her 17-year teaching career at Pell City High School, this is Lambert’s first time being awarded Teacher of the Year.  

“So many teachers in our schools do an excellent job, and to be chosen by my peers as their representative is a great honor to me,” Lambert said. “I love my job. I love  

working with high school students and helping them find their way and seeing their faces light up when they choose a career.” 

Teaching agricultural science entails more than just agriculture. The teachers also help train students for future skilled workforce positions including welding, farming, small engines, and woodworking.  

“She is very honest,” FFA president Allen Sanderson said. “She works well with kids to make sure they get their work done and is supportive of things outside of school to help with a career.” 

“Mrs. Lambert is very understanding,” Cayce Maggard, FFA secretary added. “She really tries to open people’s eyes that AG builds leadership and can help with multiple careers.” 

The Pell City High School FFA was recently named one of the Top Five Chapters in the state, and received a two-star award at the National level.  The local FFA holds career development events, competitions in a 27 county area, and work with local elementary schools. Every year, students from the FFA hold “Farm Day” at Dry Creek Farm in Pell City and welcome second grade students from the Pell City School System to receive hands-on learning with animals and games.  

Students also collect food items for Thanksgiving to donate to the local Love Pantry and sponsor a local family for Christmas by purchasing gifts and needed items.  

“(Lambert) makes sure people are involved,” Alex Thomas, FFA vice president said. “And she’d like to get more people involved.”