A self-described lifelong learner, JEFCOED Teacher of the Year Finalist Ja’Miah Williams feels as though she was called to be an educator—a quality Lipscomb Principal Yulanda O’Neal has seen firsthand.
“It certainly is a calling,” O’Neal said. “And I know that she's walking in her calling.”
Currently in her first full year as a teacher, Ms. Williams prides herself on being involved in her students’ lives beyond the classroom.
“The relationships between me and my students are very important to me,” Williams said. “I like to have an environment where they feel safe. Not only know they're going to learn, but know they can come to me.”
Outside her classroom, Ms. Williams is a part of Lipscomb Elementary School’s Parent Involvement Committee and tutors students. Principal O’Neal said the effort Ms. Williams puts in to connect with students and their families makes a real impact on the school.
“Not only does she build relationships with the students, she intentionally and purposefully plans her lessons out to meet the needs of each child,” O’Neal said.
As Ms. Williams continues to grow in her career as an educator, she said she’s grateful to have been named a top five finalist for JEFCOED’s Elementary Teacher of the Year Award.
“In my first full year, it’s very reassuring to know the relationships I build and the heart I pour into my classes; it doesn’t go unnoticed,” Williams said.
Our elementary and secondary Teacher of the Year winners will be named on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Click here to meet our other finalists.