College of Education and Human Services alumna recognized in America’s Favorite Teacher national competition

 

MURRAY, Ky. — Sara Morgan, a 2025 elementary education alumna and graduate of Murray State University’s College of Education and Human Services, has been recognized on a national stage through a nomination for the America’s Favorite Teacher competition.

This recognition highlights the educator’s work as a first-year teacher and her commitment to building an inclusive classroom environment where all students feel supported and valued. Being considered in a national competition has been a meaningful experience.

“Being recognized on a national stage is an incredible honor,” Morgan said. “Whether I make it to the final rounds or not, it is meaningful to have my story reach such a wide audience.”

Her approach to teaching is deeply influenced by her personal journey with dyslexia. She shares her experiences openly with students, helping them understand that learning differences are part of what makes each individual unique.

“This personal experience has shaped how I support my students by helping me build a classroom community where they feel safe and supported,” Morgan said. “We talk about how everyone has their own mix of strengths and weaknesses, and that just because something may be a challenge doesn’t mean they aren’t smart.”

Creating that supportive classroom environment has been central to her teaching philosophy. Early in the school year, students worked together to establish a class contract emphasizing respect for different abilities, perspectives and learning styles. The result has been a classroom where students feel more confident sharing ideas and participating in discussions.

The recognition also reflects her growth as an educator during her first year in the classroom. While she credits her preparation at Murray State for providing a strong foundation, she views teaching as an ongoing learning process.

“Although I am a first-year teacher, I have grown exponentially since my first few months in the classroom,” she said. “This recognition reflects my commitment to being a lifelong learner.”

Beyond the classroom, she has demonstrated leadership through her long-standing involvement with Best Buddies, an international nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her nine-year involvement has included leadership roles in high school and college, and she recently launched a Best Buddies chapter at the school where she currently teaches.

Looking ahead, she plans to pursue graduate studies in teacher leadership and learning disorders, with the goal of advocating for students with dyslexia and other learning differences.

“My dyslexia allows me to see the world from a unique perspective,” she said. “I want to help create a more inclusive world where every individual is celebrated and their potential is never underestimated.”

The America’s Favorite Teacher competition will take place over several rounds this spring, beginning with the Top 20 round from March 16 to April 2, where public voting will help narrow competitors through the Top 15, Top 10 and Top 5 stages. The event will then progress through Group Finals, a Wildcard Round, Quarterfinals, Semifinals and Finals (May 15–21) before the 2026 America’s Favorite Teacher is announced in June.

To vote, visit americasfavteacher.org.