Jefferson’s of Calhoun is pleased to announce that Anabelle Roper has been named Jefferson’s 2026 Calhoun Teacher of the Year! Ms. Roper teaches first grade language arts at Calhoun Primary School, and is in her second year of teaching.
Ms. Roper was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by students and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Teachers’ Day on May 5, aims to recognize one of Calhoun’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Ms. Roper as the Calhoun Teacher of the Year for her dedication to creating a joyful, creative environment for students.
“Ms. Roper’s nominators spoke of her enthusiastic positivity and her easy way of connecting with everyone,” said franchisee/owner Wayne Mullinax. “She is always there for her students—whether for homework help or just to be a kind ear. She attends their sports games and recitals, and above all else creates a welcoming and kind environment for her kids. Her commitment to her students isn’t just for the school year, it’s for life. Ms. Roper embodies everything our communities value in their teachers and leaders, and we’re honored to recognize her for her dedication to the Calhoun community.”
Roper will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and her achievement will be commemorated on the “Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year” plaque at the Calhoun restaurant.
“Being a teacher has meant more to me than I could ever fully put into words,” said Ms. Roper in a statement. “The joy that comes with this profession is unlike anything else. To me, teaching is about so much more than delivering lessons—it’s about being a support system, a cheerleader, a safe place, and, at times, a second home for my students. More than anything, I hope my students remember not just what I taught them, but how deeply they were cared for and how much I love them.”
Last year was the launch of the Teacher of the Year program, with Lee Holley, teacher at Red Bud Middle School, selected as Calhoun’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
This year is the sophomore run for the Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year award, launched as a companion program to Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award, which runs in the fall. The teachers’ initiative is 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.