CULLMAN, Ala. – East Elementary Fifth-Grade Teacher Lacy Cameron has been named one of 16 finalists (commonly known as the “Sweet 16”) for the prestigious 2026–2027 Alabama Teacher of the Year.
Exemplary teachers inspire students to reach their full potential by instilling in them a desire to become lifelong learners. Alabama’s teachers serve as the foundation for educational excellence at both the state and national levels, and this year’s finalists represent the very best of the profession.
Selected from a highly competitive pool of more than 155 outstanding educators across the state, the 16 finalists exemplify excellence in teaching and learning in their classrooms and communities. The Alabama Teacher of the Year program remains one of the state’s oldest and most respected honors in education.
Cameron began her career at East Elementary School in 2005 and has dedicated her career to teaching elementary mathematics. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in achieving some of the highest elementary math scores in Alabama, serving as a cornerstone of academic success within Cullman City Schools.
Currently a fifth-grade math teacher, Cameron is known for uplifting her students, supporting families and collaborating with colleagues to foster a positive and high-performing learning environment.
“This recognition is a testament to Mrs. Cameron’s unwavering commitment to excellence,” Cullman City Schools Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff said. “As a superintendent and as a parent, I have seen firsthand the impact Mrs. Cameron has on our students, our school system and our community. I could not think of a more deserving person to receive this level of recognition.”
Cameron now advances in the selection process for Alabama Teacher of the Year. All 16 finalists will be honored at a statewide reception in Montgomery in mid-May.
This marks the third time in the past five years that Cullman City Schools has had a representative named to the Alabama Teacher of the Year “Sweet 16.”
Cullman City Schools congratulates Cameron on this outstanding achievement and wishes her continued success as she represents the system and community at the state level.
