Teacher of the Year
Thomas County Middle School proudly celebrates Stacie Layne as the 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year, recognizing her dedication to mathematics education and her unwavering commitment to student success.
Mrs. Layne has been an essential part of the Thomas County Middle School faculty, where she teaches eighth grade Honors Math and ninth grade Enhanced Algebra: Concepts and Connections in the MERIT program. Her Enhanced Algebra course is particularly rigorous, as students master two years’ worth of mathematical content within a single academic year. Her ability to inspire young mathematicians and foster a deep understanding of the subject has set her apart as a leader in her field.
Since beginning her teaching career in 2008, Layne has accumulated a wealth of experience and accolades. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Thomas University, followed by a Master’s Degree in Education focusing on mathematics from the same institution. In her pursuit of academic excellence, Layne also obtained a Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Valdosta State University in 2014. To further support her students, she has received her gifted endorsement through Southwest Georgia RESA, equipping her with the tools to challenge and inspire advanced learners.
Before joining Thomas County Middle School, Layne taught at C.A. Gray Junior High in Moultrie, Georgia, where her exceptional teaching skills earned her the title of 2014 Teacher of the Year. Most recently, she was recognized as a Math Leader by the State Superintendent of Georgia, Richard Woods, a distinction awarded for her outstanding contributions to math education. This honor was based on her exceptional student achievement, as 100% of her high school math students earned a score of 3 or 4 on the Georgia Milestones End of Course test last school year.
Because of her depth of knowledge with DESMOS calculators, Southwest Georgia RESA has invited Layne to conduct a math workshop on March 27, 2025. This workshop will focus on tips and tricks for utilizing DESMOS calculators effectively, benefiting math educators from schools across southwest Georgia. Her expertise in integrating technology into mathematics instruction continues to be recognized as a valuable resource for both students and fellow educators.
As the TCMS Teacher of the Year, Layne emphasizes that strong relationships are the foundation of learning. She believes that students thrive when they feel genuinely seen and valued. "Students don’t care how much we know until they know how much we care," she shares. By prioritizing trust and connection, she creates a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks and engage deeply with the material.
Every student carries their own unique story into the classroom. Mrs. Layne believes in honoring these individual experiences by creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. When students know they are valued, they develop the confidence to push through challenges and achieve success. She encourages teachers to take the time to truly understand their students beyond academics—learning about their interests, struggles, and aspirations—to create deeper, more meaningful connections.
What Layne enjoys most about teaching at Thomas County Middle School is the opportunity to work with a supportive faculty and motivated students. She finds the most rewarding part of teaching to be witnessing her students’ growth, both academically and personally, as they develop a love for mathematics. She actively engages students through technology, collaborative learning, and real-world applications, making math relevant and meaningful. She believes that by making math engaging and applicable to everyday life, students develop a lasting appreciation for the subject.
For students who struggle, Layne provides personalized support through one-on-one instruction, peer tutoring, and targeted intervention strategies, while also ensuring that each student receives the encouragement needed to succeed. Her teaching extends beyond academics; she models empathy, connection, and the power of perseverance, reinforcing the belief that every student is capable of success with the right support and guidance.
Layne encourages fellow educators to prioritize relationships, listen to students' stories, and create a supportive learning environment. "Teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge—it’s about making a lasting impact on students’ lives," she says. Moving forward, she hopes to mentor new teachers, refine her instructional methods, and continue advocating for student-centered education.
She also emphasizes the importance of collaboration among educators. By working together, sharing best practices, and supporting one another, teachers can create stronger learning environments for their students. She envisions a future where educators are not only instructors but also mentors and role models who shape the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.
As Thomas County Middle School’s Teacher of the Year, Stacie Layne stands as a shining example of excellence in education. Her unwavering belief in the power of relationships, combined with her commitment to academic excellence, continues to make a profound impact on her students and the entire school community.