“I teach 4th grade because I believe this is the year students begin to see who they can become,” shared Maggie Grow, who is in her fourth year of teaching and third year at W.J. Carroll Intermediate School. “I want to be a teacher who encourages them, challenges them, and helps them discover their strengths. Watching them take risks, solve problems, and celebrate their successes reminds me every day why this job is such a blessing.”
Mrs. Grow earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Mobile and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Elementary Education from the University of West Alabama. She works hard to balance teaching and personal life by staying organized and setting boundaries. She prioritizes rest and time with her family.
“My faith is the foundation of why I became a teacher. I believe God called me to this work so I can be a light in my students’ lives and someone who encourages them, sees their worth, and reflects kindness and love each day,” Mrs. Grow shared. “Teaching gives me the chance to live out the purpose God placed on my heart: to guide, support, and inspire children in a way that honors Him.”
Energetic, engaging, and student-focused would be how Mrs. Grow describes her teaching style. She works to develop hands-on lessons that make learning memorable in her classroom.
“Whether it’s through games, discussions, movement, or creative activities, I work to make each day fun and meaningful. When students are excited, involved, and able to relate the content to their own experiences, the learning sticks, and that’s what I aim for every day,” she shared.
The most challenging aspect of teaching so far is saying goodbye to her students after spending the entire year cultivating a family atmosphere in the classroom. This makes the most rewarding aspect of teaching the exact opposite. Mrs. Grow loves when her former students stop by and share how their lives were impacted positively.
“To me, relationships are the heart of teaching. From the very first day, I work to create more than just a classroom, but I strive to build a family where every student feels seen, valued, and loved. Knowing each child personally allows me to support them not only academically but emotionally and to celebrate their unique gifts every day,” shared Mrs. Grow. “I am truly humbled and blessed to receive this award. This recognition isn’t just mine. It reflects the hard work, love, and support of my wonderful students and their amazing parents, who inspire me every single day.”
Maggie Grow and her husband, Trent, have been married for three years. They have a son named Gunnar (2). As a family, they enjoy spending time together and with their extended families, going to church, visiting the beach, fishing, and hunting.
