Houston County Teacher of the Year Jade Thomas describes moment she heard her name called

Jade Thomas is a fourth grade teacher who teaches reading, writing and social studies.

HOUSTON COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Jade Thomas, a fourth grade teacher at Lake Joy Elementary School, was overwhelmed with surprise and joy when she was announced as the Houston County Teacher of the Year during the district’s convocation ceremony last month.

A moment of shock and honor

“I just held my head down in disbelief,” Thomas said, recalling the moment her name was called. “I was really shocked, surprised, and honored, and when my children came on stage, it just kind of hit me like a ton of bricks.”

Lake Joy Elementary School Principal Tami Godman describes Thomas as the perfect choice for the award due to her dedication to her students, the school and the district.

“Well, I think anytime you walk into Ms. Thomas’ classroom, you automatically know she’s a natural teacher,” Godman said. “Her enthusiasm, her love for children. She loves all children. She’s just a very effective educator.”

Unique teaching approach

Thomas is known for her hands-on, brain-on approach to learning.

“I want my students up and out of their seats when we’re engaged in a lesson,” Thomas explained. “I like to look at the standards and curriculum and say, ‘How can I make this a lesson that they can remember five years from now?'”

Godman describes Thomas as an invaluable asset to Lake Joy Elementary.