Mackey picked as “Teacher of the Year” at Horizon

MADISON – Horizon Elementary School’s faculty and staff have recognized Tymeria Mackey as “2026 Teacher of the Year.”

Mackey learned about her award while attending an Individualized Education Program or IEP meeting. Principal Dr. Demetria Freeman stopped by and said Mackey was needed for one of her students. “I usually try to get to classrooms as quickly as possible when a teacher calls, so I took off in what I would call a ‘light jog’ to get to the student until I realized it was all a trick,” Mackey said.

“I was honestly surprised. This school year started with one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through, losing a child, so being recognized during a time like this meant a lot to me,” Mackey said. “I have tried to show up each day for my students, coworkers and school community and give them my best so to be recognized for doing something I truly love was truly an honor.”

Currently, Mackey serves as a collaborative teacher and case manager in special education at Horizon, where she has worked for two years. “I began my career at Madison Elementary School’s Learning Academy as a long-term substitute teacher for a semester. I worked at the Learning Academy for five years,” she said.

Her interest in Madison City Schools grew after attending a job fair while in college. She met John Jones, MCS Chief Operating Officer. After the fair, Jones stayed to talk with Mackey and her classmates.

“His kindness and genuine interest left a lasting impression. At the time, I lived in Florence and honestly had no plans to accept a position an hour away,” Mackey said. “The interview panel, including Lisa Dutton, Reba Moorer and Dr. Demetria Freeman, created an environment that felt welcoming and comfortable. It felt like home.”

Later, Jamie Golliver, then Madison Elementary’s principal, offered Mackey a long-term substitute position. “I had already convinced myself that I would decline because of the commute. But when he asked if I would accept the job, ‘Yes’ came out before I could think twice,” Mackey said.

“Looking back, I truly believe God had other plans for me. Accepting that opportunity led me to where I am today, and I am grateful it did,” Mackey said.

Over the years, Mackey has received other honors: “Most Outstanding Student” in her graduating class, 2014; “Student Employee of the Year” finalist, University of North Alabama or UNA, 2018; and Horizon’s top teacher, 2026. “While each recognition is special, what makes them meaningful is that they all reflect me doing what I love — serving others,” she said.

Every school day, Mackey can reflect with positive thoughts. “There’s always room for improvement and no day is ever perfect, but when I look around at the team we have at Horizon, it’s hard not to leave at the end of the day feeling like we’ve done something right.”

One factor that she loves most about Horizon is that “every person in the building plays a role in supporting students. It doesn’t matter whether they’re in the classroom, office, cafeteria or working behind the scenes, everyone contributes to helping our students succeed,” Mackey said.

“Whether I’ve helped de-escalate a student, helped a student experience academic success, or simply helped a child have a better day, those moments remind me why I do this work,” Mackey said. “At the end of the day, when our students feel supported and successful, I consider that a win.”

Anniston is her hometown. Mackey graduated from UNA with bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and special education for grades K-6. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in school psychometry.

“I am the proud mother of Ace Tyrique Pride, my angel baby, who was born in Heaven on Aug. 2, 2025,” she said.

Few people know that Mackey was selected as a Universal Cheerleaders Association or UCA All-American Cheerleader as a senior in high school. “The funny part is that I could never do a back handspring. I actually broke my middle finger trying to learn one, and it’s still on my bucket list to master one someday,” she said.

“I’m kind of one extreme or the other when it comes to hobbies. I love to rest, relax and take naps when I can, but I also enjoy anything that gives me a big adrenaline rush,” Mackey said. “I’ve been skydiving, and I really enjoy experiences that push me out of my comfort zone and create lasting memories.”