Jefferson’s of Scottsboro is pleased to announce that Megan Lewis has been named Jefferson’s 2026 Scottsboro Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Lewis teaches seventh grade collaborative special education at Scottsboro Junior High School, and has been teaching for four years.
Mrs. Lewis 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 Scottsboro’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Mrs. Lewis as the Scottsboro Teacher of the Year for her compassion.
“Mrs. Lewis’ nominators spoke of how much she cares,” said Sean McCooey, President of Double Dip Franchise Group. “She works endlessly to make her classes engaging, and creates special events that make learning and life joyful for her students. Mrs. Lewis embodies everything our communities value in their teachers and leaders, and we’re honored to recognize her for her dedication to the Scottsboro community.”
Lewis 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 Scottsboro restaurant.
“Growing up, I was fortunate to have incredible teachers who shaped who I am today,” said Mrs. Lewis in a statement. “Their impact inspired me to create that same kind of supportive, meaningful experience for my own students. Now, I’m grateful to give back by working in the same school system that helped shape me.”
Last year was the launch of the Teacher of the Year program, with Erica Hill, teacher at Caldwell Elementary School, selected as Scottsboro’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.