Eden Elementary School fourth grade teacher Dr. Andrew Fletcher Jackson has been named the 2020-2021 Alabama Teacher of the Year.

Jackson was among 16 finalist who were recognized by Governor Kay Ivey at this month’s State Board of Education meeting.

Jackson will serve as the state’s official ambassador for public education and the teaching profession. Jackson’s background is in special education and general education.

“I believe that all learning starts with handling adversity and managing one’s emotions,” Jackson said in a statement.

“True learning requires perseverance, problem-solving, and personal connection. Such traits are prerequisites for a child to remain motivated when learning a math strategy that may seem too difficult at first, or even applying a challenging new reading skill. It is important for educators to provide real-world experiences to help students connect their learning to the world around them.”

Officials with the Alabama Department of Education said Jackson is “a top educator, mentor, and a great professional inspiration for teachers statewide. He works to cultivate these principles throughout his personal life too.

Jackson and his wife Sheree are also foster parents who have provided a loving home to several adopted children – some with special needs.

In a social media post, Jackson says teachers have a unique opportunity to help students build on their strengths

“They help students develop a radical sense of self acceptance — that who they are is awesome and that they don’t need hide or be ashamed of who they are.”