Alabaster, AL - Catherine Jetzel, a dedicated and passionate educator, has been honored as the Support Person of the Year at Thompson Middle School (TMS). With a career spanning two decades in education, Jetzel’s journey has been marked by a commitment to fostering student growth and creating a supportive learning environment.
Jetzel’s path to education was not straightforward. “I actually began college with a major in elementary education, early childhood, and special education,” she shared. However, after two years, she found herself questioning her career choice and ultimately graduated in another field. She initially worked in banking and insurance but later took a decade-long break to raise her children. It was during this time that she rediscovered her passion for education.
“I began substitute teaching when my children were in school, and I did that for eight years,” she said. Her dedication to education only grew, and in the 2013-2014 school year, the first year of Alabaster City Schools, she joined as a paraprofessional for sixth grade. Over the years, she’s worked at both the Sixth Grade Center and Thompson Middle School, accumulating 12 years of invaluable experience.
Jetzel’s favorite part of her job is working directly with students. “I enjoy helping them recognize that they are capable of more than they realize,” she said. Whether it’s encouraging students to take risks, guiding them as they learn challenging concepts, or equipping them with skills for the future, Jetzel finds fulfillment in seeing her students succeed. “Seeing them take chances and succeed, learn what they thought they could not, and utilize skills to better themselves for a future in society is rewarding,” she added.
In her role, Jetzel collaborates closely with teachers to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive. “I help teachers in the classroom by assisting any and all students that need help, by giving feedback if needed, and by supporting teachers in any task necessary,” she explained. Her efforts include reteaching and reinforcing lessons, providing notes and tools, and working with students in small groups or one-on-one. “If we support each other, the classroom overall is a more successful environment for teachers and students alike,” she noted.
Jetzel’s colleagues and students alike commend her unwavering dedication and her ability to inspire those around her. Her work goes beyond the classroom, embodying a mission to make a lasting difference in the lives of her students.
“I do this job because it is what I feel I am called to do,” she said. Thompson Middle School is proud to recognize Catherine Jetzel’s contributions and celebrate her well-deserved recognition as Support Person of the Year.