Stonebridge Elementary teacher says second grade is the sweet spot for education

Spanish Fort, Ala. (WKRG) — Our Golden Apple team wondered who was surprised the most by our presence in their classroom at Stonebridge Elementary in Spanish Fort—-the bewildered second-graders–or their equally bewildered teacher, Heather Thomas.

“I’m surprised–very, very surprised,” she said.

Thomas teaches second-graders–and her goal is to see them grow to be whatever they can be.

“I would definitely say character education and being able to be a leader in school–just teaching them how to be proactive and putting first things first and really just who they become is so important,” said Thomas.

She’s in her seventh year as a teacher. Thomas says second grade is the perfect place to begin helping these students develop their personalities.

“Second grade is the sweet spot–I say second grade is the best–they’re still moldable, but they’re independent too, so that’s what I really like about second grade,” she said.

And she’s got some supporters—parents who appreciate her approach in the classroom.

Tina Stewart told us, “Ms Thomas is amazing. I have a son with special needs and she takes care of him better than anyone I’ve ever had with him.”

Parent and nominator Brittany Veasey added, “She’s just the best—she’s just the best and she really deserves this.”

Our congratulations to Heather Thomas and Stonebridge Elementary for a job well done.

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