Board members join in honoring local educators

Elementary Teacher of the Year: Svea Tierce

Ms. Svea Tierce, a beloved second-grade teacher at Orange Beach Elementary School, radiates dedication and innovation. Admired by staff and students alike, she has cultivated a reputation for fostering meaningful relationships and creating a positive, supportive classroom environment. Her passion for teaching extends to her growth, as she actively pursues National Board Certification—a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

Ms. Tierce’s creativity knows no bounds. One of her standout teaching methods, the “desk pets” program, engages students by allowing them to earn their own “pets” along with homes and food. This innovative approach blends fun with responsibility, capturing students’ imaginations while fostering personal and academic growth. Her dynamic strategies have delivered exceptional results, with her students achieving the school system’s highest proficiency in ELA and Math on the 2024 ACAP testing.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Tierce shines as a leader and mentor. As a varsity cross-country coach, she has guided her student-athletes to remarkable success, with several competing at the state level. Her quiet humility and positive influence make her a respected and admired figure within the school community.

Secondary Teacher of the Year: Morgan Soutullo

Ms. Morgan Soutullo, an inspiring Orange Beach Middle & High School educator, brings a fresh and dynamic approach to science education. Teaching Honors Chemistry, AP Chemistry, and AP Environmental Science, she transforms challenging scientific concepts into engaging and accessible lessons. Her expertise and innovative teaching methods have made her classroom a place of discovery and excitement.

Ms. Soutullo’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. At the Orange Beach City Schools Institute Awards, she was recognized for achieving the highest percentage of students with qualifying scores on AP exams across the school system. An impressive 90% of her students earned qualifying scores, a testament to her exceptional skill, dedication, and effectiveness as an educator.

Beyond her classroom success, Ms. Soutullo actively mentors her colleagues and fosters a positive school culture, embodying the spirit of continuous professional growth. Her ability to inspire a genuine passion for science among her students and peers exemplifies her leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Both honorees will be celebrated at the Legacy Awards Banquet on January 30, 2025, at the Orange Beach Event Center.