Kellie Evans is a finalist for Alabama Teacher of the Year. (CONTRIBUTED)

Jenny Massey is a finalist for Alabama Teacher of the Year. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON COUNTY – Kellie Evans and Jenny Massey, both teachers for Madison County Schools, have been named finalists for Alabama Teacher of the Year.

Evans and Massey were the only teachers in the county’s three school districts that advanced for state consideration.

In March, Evans was chosen as Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Massey was selected Secondary Teacher of the Year for Madison County Schools.

Evans and Massey were candidates for District VIII. Alabama State Board of Education and Alabama Department of Education administer the program.

Evans teaches third-graders at Riverton Elementary School. She also has taught grades 1-2 during her 11 years at Riverton. She works as co-director for Riverton’s after-school program and serves on the Blue Ribbon Committee and Lighthouse Team.

Evans earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education at the University of North Alabama. At Samford University, she received a master’s degree in instructional leadership.

Massey teaches English at Buckhorn High School, where she has worked since 2001. She founded the Encouragement Club and Santa’s Little Helpers project and formerly coached the dance team. She serves as an A+ College Ready consultant and National Math and Science Initiative trainer.

Massey earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She is a National Board Certified Teacher. In 2012, she was Buckhorn’s Teacher of the Year.

Madison County Schools Superintendent Matt Massey said having two representatives from the district showcases the quality of teaching within the county schools.

“Our teachers are the best of the best and winning the district is not only a testament to these great teachers but to their peers and students who help inspire them to be the best. This is great news and shines a bright light on our entire system,” Massey said.

Alabama Teacher of the Year will be announced on May 13 at RSA Plaza Terrace in Montgomery.

For more information about Alabama Teacher of the Year, visit alsde.edu.