Jefferson’s of Rome is pleased to announce that Amy Reyes has been named the first-ever Jefferson’s Rome Teacher of the Year! Ms. Reyes teaches third grade at West End Elementary School, and has been teaching for four years.
Ms. Reyes 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 Rome’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Ms. Reyes as the Rome Teacher of the Year for her passion for her energy, care, and unwavering generosity.
“Ms. Reyes’ nominators spoke of her energetic engagement, and desire to ensure every student has joy in the classroom,” said co-owner/franchisee Wayne Mullinax. “Ms. Reyes has not only taken charge of Hispanic History Month for the school, but will also stop at nothing to make sure school is joyful for her students–she dresses up in lesson-related costumes, plans special events, and provides from her own pocket. We’re honored to recognize Ms. Reyes for her dedication and her contribution to the Rome community.”
Ms. Reyes 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.
“I fell in love with teaching my senior year of high school when I received my first student teaching placement in a first grade classroom,” Reyes said in a statement. “I quickly became part of a classroom family that shaped me and my entire future. Teaching is an act of love and the most rewarding part is undoubtedly the bond I share each year with my kids.”
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.