Recently J. B. Martin Middle School language arts teacher Stacy Neighbors was named the Louisiana Middle School Association’s “Teacher of the Year.” The purpose of the LMSA is to provide general improvement of education for students of middle school age (about 10-15) in the state of Louisiana. More specifically, the organization aims to facilitate continuing curriculum development, professional development, school planning and school improvement.

LMSA assists in other phases of middle school education including safety and socialization, a clearinghouse for an exchange of ideas, materials and personnel needed for middle school development.

When asked about the honor Neighbors said, “It is truly an honor to be chosen as the 2012 Louisiana Middle School Association’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year. I wake up every day thankful for what I do. The ability to impact students is rewarding, yet my students have taught me so much as well. We, teachers, never know how long our influence lasts. Though, I love that rewarding feeling when I have made a lasting impression on a student. I am appreciative of this award for something I love to do daily – teach.”