Amanda Beason has been described by her colleagues and students as “one-of-a-kind, extraordinary, and inspirational.”

After more than two decades in education, the Leeds High School teacher has been recognized for excellence not only in teaching the English language to her students but for fostering teachers within them as well.

“I love teaching English,” she said.  “However, I am the teacher I am today not because of what I teach but because of whom I teach. “Hundreds of students have added their distinct signatures to the blend of my teaching style, and the lessons they have taught me will be long remembered.”

Jacksonville State University (JSU) recently recognized her accomplishments by inducting her into its Teacher Hall of Fame.

“She is an outstanding educator and one we are proud to have listed in our Teacher Hall of Fame,” the school’s president, Dr. William A. Meehan, said.

Beason described her philosophy of teaching in four tenets.

“First, all students deserve a quality education.  Second, outstanding teachers build strong relationships.

“Third, teaching English is important and relevant in the 21st Century.  Fourth, lifelong learners motivate and inspire others to continue learning.”

The 2014-15 school year marks the start of Beason’s sixth year at Leeds High and her 22nd year as an educator.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to witness my students’ treks toward wisdom each day. This year, I am looking forward to preparing seniors for their immediate futures,” she said. “In addition to our study of British literature, some of our discussions and writing assignments will focus on personal responsibility and plans for the future.”

Encouraged by what the Leeds City Schools system has accomplished and continues to strive for, Beason says she continues to be inspired by her co-workers.

“More and more every year, I see that the classroom teacher makes all the difference in student learning, I believe that outstanding teachers build solid relationships with students, parents, and other teachers.

“My students know that I care about them, and they can come to me with questions or problems. Not only am I interested in my students’ growth in English, but I am also interested in their integrity and character.”

The first teacher from Leeds City Schools to achieve the Hall of Fame distinction, Beason said she hopes to be a role model for students who have the desire of garnishing her goal of creating life long learners.

“I firmly believe in the relevance and importance of teaching English. Regardless of future occupations, all students must possess strong oral and written communication skills to be successful in today’s highly-competitive world; therefore, I strive to engage all learners by using different approaches, learning styles, activities, and assessments to impact 21st century learners.  By preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s world, I am able to make every school year exciting for students and for myself.”

For more information on JSU’s Teacher Hall of Fame visit: http://www.jsu.edu/edprof/tsc/fame.html.