Jade Thomas, ’17, Recognized as Outstanding Educator

Jade Thomas, '17, is one of the outstanding educators being considered as Georgia's Teacher of the Year. She was recently recognized as the 2024-2025 Houston County Teacher of the Year for her dedication to enabling her students to reach their greatest potential.

"Being recognized as the district teacher of the year has been a rewarding time in my career," said Thomas, a fourth grade teacher at Lake Joy Elementary School in Warner Robins, Ga. "I never expected it, simply because I am passionate about my work. Somedays, it doesn't feel like work because I love it so much! This job is challenging, but I focus on all the positive aspects and the things I can control. I hope to continue growing as a teacher and inspire those around me."

Thomas served eight years in the Marine Corps, following the example of her twin brother, before pursuing her degree in education at Niagara University. Inspired by her mother, who advocated for her sons with special needs as they navigated the school system, Thomas wanted to do the same for other children and thought being a teacher would be an ideal way to do so.

At Niagara, the Niagara Falls native learned both the skills and competencies needed to be effective in the classroom and was encouraged to "remain passionate" about the work.

"Those words have helped me keep my mission as a teacher focused on what truly matters: the students," Thomas said.

Thomas relocated to Georgia, where she and her partner are raising their three children. She is in her eighth year of teaching at Lake Joy, where she is on the school's hospitality committee, has assisted the school's leadership team, and coached the school's STEP Team.

Thomas also collaborated with two other military veteran teachers to start the school's Military Kids Club, which supports students who have parents on active duty through the hardships, commonalities, and obstacles faced by these children, and encourages them to bond and create lasting friendships.

"These additional duties I truly enjoy," she said. "They help me feel connected to our student population. I am also proud of the relationships I build with my students." She adds that seeing former students, some of whom are now graduating from high school, is "the best feeling. It fills me with pride knowing I had a small role in their educational and life journey."

Thomas notes that, while challenging, the teaching profession is also very rewarding.

"My message to teachers is simple: Keep a positive mental attitude," she said. "You will often hear of teacher burnout. I choose to remain focused on what I can control, and keep my energy focused on all the positive things this field brings."

"I appreciate the impact I can make on my students," she continued. "Seeing their growth from August to May drives my motivation to keep growing as a teacher. I am also blessed to have amazing colleagues and administrators who help me be the best I can be. I feel iron truly sharpens iron at my school, and I enjoy coming to work each day."

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