To promote educational excellence, the Alabama Education Association serves as an advocate for its members and leads the advancement of equitable and quality public education in Alabama.
Etowah County Educator Receives Recognition for Teaching Excellence
On February 13, 2026, Etowah County Education Association’s Kristi Smith was honored at the 2026 Salute to Excellence in Education Gala, receiving one of the coveted Travelers Insurance Awards for Teaching Excellence.
Since 2001, the NEA Foundation has celebrated exceptional educators nationwide with these awards, recognizing excellence in the classroom, advocacy for the profession, commitment to equity and opportunity, community engagement, and leadership in professional development.
Smith, a sixth-grade history teacher at Rainbow Middle School, is one of 48 educators to receive this award. She joined her fellow honorees in Washington, D.C., at the Salute to Excellence over the weekend to receive her award. This event, often referred to as the “Academy Awards of Education,” brings together educators, education leaders, advocates, elected officials, and members of the business community to honor outstanding educators and champions of public education.
Each year, state affiliates of the National Education Association (NEA) nominate a different educator as an example of the best in the teaching profession in their state. Smith was Alabama’s nominee for the 2026 awards. The NEA Foundation is a national nonprofit and philanthropic organization founded by educators to advance the absolute best in public education. Its mission is to work in partnership with others to improve both students’ and communities’ educational experiences and outcomes.
“These exceptional educators exemplify the heart and soul of public education,” said Sara A. Sneed, President and CEO of The NEA Foundation. “Their unwavering dedication to creating pathways to success for all students through high-quality learning environments and supportive teaching practices, even in the face of immense challenges, is both inspiring and essential.” Congratulations, Kristi, on your accomplishment!