Congratulations to our

2008-2009 Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Rachel Stedham

Mrs. Stedham was born in Glencoe, Alabama. (March 10, 1983)  She graduated from Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. Rachel has been teaching for three years.  At college she majored in nursing before deciding to become a teacher.

 Mrs. Stedham has a husband named Tripp and a dog named Bear, a three year old Great Pyrenees.  Rachel and her husband enjoy traveling.  Her favorite vacation was a trip to Hawaii last summer.  She swam with sharks while there!

Rachel's hobbies include karate, sewing, and quilting.  She is a 2nd degree black belt in TaeKwonDo.  She began taking lessons when she was in the 7^th grade. (about 13-14 years ago)

Mrs. Stedham is a member of  Northside Baptist Church. She has been a member there for a little over 2 years. She teaches an Awana class called Puggles. It is the 2-3 year olds.

Rachel LOVES to read. On average, she reads  2-3 books every week. She likes any kind of book.  Recently she has been reading mysteries.  Rachel says that the best book she has read lately is “Saving Grace” by Ryan Phillips. Her favorite author is Nicholas Sparks.

Mrs. Stedham said she liked school and was always on the honor roll. Her favorite subject in school was math. She also enjoyed biology. Her high school Biology teacher, Mrs. Vann, influenced Rachel to become a teacher. "She was always very positive and inspired us to learn as much as we could," said Mrs. Stedham.
 

We are very fortunate that Mrs. Stedham teaches here at Western.  She is always very positive and inspires our children to learn as much as they can. It is a pleasure to work with her.

Rachel and husband, Tripp

Rachel with Mother and sisters

Handmade quilt

Bear

Rachel and Tripp, Easter Island

Swimming with Sharks in Hawaii!

Rachel, Tripp, and Bear