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2024 State Teacher of the Year, Alabama

Jeff Norris

STAte: Alabama
SCHOOL: Oak Mountain Middle
CONTENT AREA: Mathematics
GRADE LEVEL: 6

Biography

Jeff Norris teaches sixth grade mathematics at Oak Mountain Middle School in Birmingham, Alabama. He firmly believes all members of the school community, from office personnel to classroom teachers to district administrators, and especially students themselves, have the ability to positively influence and lead others. 
 
He began teaching at the elementary level before moving into a successful eight-year stint in school administration. Norris then chose to return to classroom teaching, this time at the secondary level, teaching English language arts for two years prior to mathematics. Currently, he travels and connects with educators to celebrate and amplify their passion for impacting children’s lives. He spotlights teaching strategies and stories on his podcast, The Power of a Moment. No matter his position, Norris displays a vision of student-centered, optimistic and inspirational influence. 
 
After earning a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from the University of Alabama and a Master of Arts in gifted education from the University of South Alabama, Norris earned a master’s degree in instructional leadership and an educational specialist degree in teacher leadership, both from the University of Montevallo. 
 
He continued his learning and received certification to teach middle school math in grades four through eight and certification from the National Institute for STEM Education. Most recently, Norris maintained his National Board Certification as a Middle Childhood Generalist and was named the Alabama National Board Certified Teacher Network Communications Secretary. His goal is to motivate others to use their voice in making positive, passionate impacts on others.