Celebrating Excellence in Education: A Spotlight on Veronica Breakfield

As the leaves turn and the season of gratitude approaches, Athens City Schools takes a moment to honor its exceptional educators. Among the nine teachers selected by their peers as Teachers of the Year, Veronica Breakfield stands out as a beacon of inspiration and dedication. With 27 years of experience in education, 25 of which have been spent at Athens City Schools, Veronica has made a lasting impact on her students and the community.

A Passion for Teaching Rooted in Family

Veronica Breakfield hails from Bassfield, Mississippi, a small town that shaped her values and aspirations. Growing up in a household where both parents were educators, she was immersed in the world of teaching from an early age. “I have always felt a strong calling to work with children and make a difference in their lives,” she shares. This calling was further fueled by witnessing the profound impact her parents had on their students, inspiring her to follow in their footsteps.

Her educational journey led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from William Carey University and a Master of Education in Elementary Education from the University of West Alabama. Additionally, she has pursued numerous certifications and training programs, including ARI, AMSTI Math and Science, and Project Lead the Way, among others. This commitment to professional development reflects her dedication to providing the best possible education for her students.

The Joy of Teaching Third Grade

As a third-grade teacher at iAcademy at Athens Elementary, Veronica finds joy in the daily interactions with her students. “The most rewarding part of my day is witnessing their growth and breakthroughs in learning,” she explains. Teaching all subjects allows her to engage with her students in diverse ways, fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.

Veronica’s approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of nurturing curiosity and empowering students to think independently. She believes in setting high, yet achievable expectations, and celebrates not only her students’ achievements but also their efforts and progress. This philosophy creates a supportive environment where students feel safe to express their ideas and explore their interests.

Inspiration and Legacy

Throughout her career, Veronica has drawn inspiration from her parents, who instilled in her a profound respect for the teaching profession. “Their dedication to education inspired me to pursue a similar path,” she reflects. As she prepares to retire this year, she hopes to leave behind a legacy of love and encouragement for her students. “I hope my students always know how much they were loved while in my classroom, and that I always believed in them,” she shares.

Veronica’s advice for new teachers is to prioritize building connections with their students. “Understand that mistakes are part of the learning process — for you and your students,” she advises. By embracing the unpredictability of teaching and learning from every experience, new educators can make a significant impact on their students’ lives.

A Family and Community Focus

Outside of the classroom, Veronica treasures her family and the time spent with her grandchildren. Her children, Morgan and Mary Claire, are proud alumni of Athens City Schools, and she enjoys being an active part of their lives. “I enjoy anything that involves my grandchildren,” she says, highlighting her commitment to family and community.

Veronica’s favorite quote, “Be faithful in small things, because it is in them that your strength lies,” by Mother Teresa, resonates deeply with her philosophy of teaching and life. As she reflects on her career, she expresses gratitude for her family, friends, and the supportive colleagues at Athens City Schools, who have become like family to her.

A Celebration of Excellence

The Alabama Teacher of the Year Program recognizes outstanding educators at local, district, and state levels, and Veronica’s selection as Teacher of the Year is a testament to her dedication and excellence in teaching. The Athens City Schools Foundation will honor her and her fellow Teachers of the Year at the annual ACSF Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet on November 12. The event will also announce the District-Level Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year, who will represent Athens City Schools in the Alabama Teacher of the Year state competition.

As Veronica Breakfield prepares to embark on a new chapter in her life, her legacy of love, inspiration, and dedication to education will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the hearts of her students and the Athens community. Her journey serves as a reminder of the profound impact that passionate educators can have on the lives of their students, shaping the future one lesson at a time.