Jefferson’s of Opelika is pleased to announce that Ashley Hunter has been named the first-ever Jefferson’s Opelika Teacher of the Year! Miss Hunter teaches second grade at Auburn Early Education Center. She has been teaching for nine years.
Miss Hunter was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by students and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Teachers’ Day–today, May 6–aims to recognize one of Opelika’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Miss Hunter as the Opelika Teacher of the Year for her big-heartedness and ability to make sure every child knows they are special, understood, and important.
“Miss Hunter’s nominators spoke of how her presence in a student’s life goes well beyond the classroom,” said co-owner/franchisee Jeff Moulton. “All of her students, past and present, have a special place in their hearts for Miss Hunter, and that’s because Miss Hunter makes sure there’s a place for every single child. We’re honored to recognize her for her dedication and contribution to the Opelika community.”
Miss Hunter will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and her achievement will be commemorated with a “Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year” plaque for all restaurant patrons to see.
“It’s not about grades or test scores, but it’s about the quiet, lasting impact we have on their hearts and minds,” Hunter said in a statement. “When my students come back to tell me that something I said made a difference in their lives, it’s a reminder that what we do as educators lasts far beyond the classroom. Teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge—it’s about giving love, encouragement, and belief. It’s about showing students they are capable of greatness, no matter what they look like, or where they come from, or how much life challenges them. Teaching isn’t a classroom—it’s a calling. And no matter where I go, I carry that calling with me.”
This year is the pilot run for the Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year award, launched as a sister program to Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award, which runs in the fall. The teachers’ initiative was open to teachers working with students of any age, and candidates could be nominated by students, parents and guardians of students, school officials, or other community members.