Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Birmingham-area teachers named 2026 Charter School Teachers of the Year
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The Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) named its 2026 Nelson Marshall Awards for Teaching Excellence recipients, honoring three educators for their dedication, leadership and commitment to student success. This year, all three awardees teach at Birmingham-area schools.
2026 Nelson Marshall Award winners
- Elementary Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Tauna Kramer, Freedom Preparatory Academy
- Middle School Teacher of the Year: Mr. Kristopher King, Empower Community School
- High School Teacher of the Year: Ms. Maria Manley, i3 Academy High School
Recognizing excellence in Alabama public charter schools
APCSC said the winners show what great teaching looks like across the state’s public charter schools and invited the community to congratulate the educators and their school communities.
“Their passion for teaching and commitment to student success reflect the excellence taking place across Alabama’s public charter schools.”
Alabama Public Charter School Commission
Charter schools in Birmingham
Freedom Prep and i3 Academy are Birmingham schools, and Empower Community School is in Bessemer.
The commission also oversees charter schools in Fairfield, Homewood, Mobile, Montgomery and Tuscaloosa, with more set to open through 2028.
