Allison named New Teacher of the Year

RUSSELLVILLE When Keylee Allison stepped into her first classroom in January 2021, she never imagined she’d one day be named the state’s top new career tech teacher. But four years later, the former banker turned educator has earned that title.

Allison, a business education teacher at the Franklin County Career Technical Center, was named New Teacher of the Year by the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education.

She said her transition into education felt natural.

“A position opened, and I was approached and asked if I would be interested,” Allison said.

Her background in business gave her a practical foundation, but it was her upbringing that pointed her toward the classroom.

“I come from a family of educators, so it seemed like a good next step — something I was familiar with.”

She said she learned she had won the statewide award during the Alabama Career Tech Summer Conference in Mobile earlier this year.

“I’m honored,” Allison said. “It was nice that somebody recognized my hard work, but I do it all for the kids — not for me.”

Allison said she had known she was a nominee after receiving an invitation to the awards ceremony but was surprised when her name was called.

“There were a lot of well-deserving nominees,” she said.

She will go on to compete in the Region 2 level of the competition in September 2026.

Region 2 includes five states, as well as the Bahamas and Puerto Rico. Winners from that round will advance to the national level.

Jonathan King, director of Career and Technical Education for Franklin County Schools, said he was proud to see Allison recognized.

“She puts in a lot of hard work,” King said. “She’s not afraid to try new ideas and go out on a limb to do something new.”

He said Allison’s classroom presence and student relationships are a key part of her success.

“Her rapport with the students sets her apart, and so does the energy she brings to the classroom. I knew she had a really good chance to win.”

Allison said she enjoys connecting with her students and helping them prepare for life beyond high school.

Her teaching also focuses on bridging school lessons with real-world experiences.

“It’s really rewarding for the students to realize we have a lot of business partners and people who come in from the community,” Allison said.

These connections, she said, help students see the bigger picture.

“They talk about the skills they use in their everyday occupations, and the students start to understand that what we do here every day does matter. That seems to get them a little more interested.”

That real-world relevance is also the goal behind Spark Tank, a competition modeled after the television show “Shark Tank.”

The project, launched last year, quickly became a highlight of the program.

Hosted at the career tech center, the event brought together business students from Red Bay, Belgreen and Phil Campbell.

Allison said the 2024 Spark Tank included about 50 participants who created fictional products and presented them to a panel of local judges.

“We had a lot of good ideas,” she said. “All of the judges seemed to really enjoy the products and pitches the students presented. The kids worked really hard. I was really impressed with the things they came up with.”

She said they hope to make Spark Tank an annual event with the next one planned for February 2026.

King said the format gave students a chance to shine and support one another.

“Even seeing the students who didn’t compete come and watch their classmates present their ideas — I think it was a really good experience for everyone involved,” he said.

He believes the event gave students lasting skills.

“I think it probably helped them become more creative. They had to use critical thinking skills for new ideas, new products — just anything that could help them be successful in the business world.”

Beyond the classroom and competitions, Allison has also found ways to meet student needs outside of academics.

She launched a Career Closet for students who need professional clothing for job interviews and other opportunities. The program, which began in the 2024–25 school year, provides donated clothing free of charge.

The initiative makes a practical difference for students facing financial barriers.

“They can come by and get clothes or shoes — a lot of different things they might need but not have. We offer it free of charge, and they get to keep the items.”

Students say her dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.

“Mrs. Allison goes above and beyond for her students,” said Jacksen Etherington. “She makes sure that we understand the concept that is being taught.”

He said her willingness to support students is part of what makes her so effective.

“If we’re unable to figure out a solution, she is always right there helping us,” Etherington said. “She is a great teacher and someone you can rely on.

“I am thankful that I get to have her another year,” he said. “She definitely deserves the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education 2025 New Teacher of the Year.”

Morgan Lauderdale said Allison is more than just a teacher.

“She was a friend, a guide and a kind soul who made every day brighter with her personality and support.”

She said Allison had a unique ability to make students feel heard and seen.

“She listened without judgment, believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself and made learning feel like a conversation, not a lesson,” Lauderdale said. “Her kindness left a mark that goes far beyond the classroom. I will forever cherish the time I got to be her student.”

Other students echoed similar appreciation for Allison’s influence.

Dacota Green said Allison consistently created a positive and motivating learning environment.

“She goes above and beyond for her students,” Green said. “She not only taught me business but life lessons. She is always smiling and makes her classroom fun and inspiring.”

Allison said none of her efforts would be possible without the people around her.

Allison lives in Russellville with her husband, Trevor, and their son, Travis.

Asshelooksaheadtothe next level of competition, she said she remains focused on what matters most — building strong relationships, preparing students for the future and finding new ways to make learning meaningful.