By Karah Wilson

DEKALB CO, Ala.––Mrs. Suzanne Hunt is a math teacher and technology coordinator at Crossville Middle School, but this is not all she is. Hunt was nominated by her fellow co-workers for DeKalb County’s teacher of the year last school session. “It is such an honor. It means so much to know my co-workers are so supportive of me,” Hunt said.

Once Hunt was nominated at the school level, she filled out an application which was put in front of an outside panel who then selects the teacher of the year. When the panel met during the summer, Hunt was selected as the 2015 teacher of the year. “It was really overwhelming and exciting that I was chosen. The fact that my daughter is now a teacher and was present at the meeting was very special. It has been a real blessing,” Hunt said.

Being nominated and chosen for teacher of the year is a reward that takes dedication and love for the job. “I love students and I have a passion for teaching. The love is rewarding. I strive to encourage students and the faculty everyday. When you are able to see that you have made a difference in the lives of others, you can be assured that you have chosen the right path.”

Teaching is not only about helping students learn what will be on the test or helping them with their homework. It is about showing students what the work force will be like once they have graduated. “I prepare my students to be college and/or career ready. Math lends itself to analyzing situations that can benefit students in so many different careers. I try to point out where the student will be able to use that skill in class or the work force.”

Hunt grew up in Collinsville but then moved to Georgia after graduating from Jacksonville State University. Hunt and her family came back to Alabama from their move from Florida. After she spent 19 years away from her home, Hunt taught one year at Collinsville High School. For the past eight years Hunt has been teaching at Crossville Middle School and High School.