My name is Jodi McKenzie, and I am the 2017 Mississippi Teacher of the Year. I currently teach Teacher Academy, English II, III, and IV at Gautier High School. I have been teaching for fifteen years. My first six years were spent teaching sixth grade reading and math in the elementary setting at Escatawpa Elementary in the Moss Point School District. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Southern Mississippi, a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from William Carey University, and am currently pursuing my PhD in Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and Evaluation.

As an educator, I am passionate about helping students realize their dreams and then guiding them to see where their potential can take them. At GHS, I serve as the English Department Chairperson, Student Council Sponsor, and am also a member of the Building Leadership Team. I most recently completed the Teacher Leadership Institute through William Carey University, and I am moving into the second component for the National Boards Certification to be submitted in May of this year.

I firmly believe that fostering a genuine and trusting relationship with each student can change how they perceive and approach their world.  In my heart, a teacher is a missionary in the life of children; I truly value the most effective missionaries in the field of education that reach out and help all children-- no matter how great their struggles may prove to be.