Janiya Gresham

At the heart of every successful classroom is a teacher who not only educates, but uplifts, inspires, and believes deeply in their students. This month, Alabama Public Television proudly recognizes Janiya Gresham, a dedicated first-grade teacher at U.W. Clemon Elementary School, as Teacher of the Month.

Now in her fifth year of teaching, Ms. Gresham recently made the change from kindergarten to first grade, looping up with her previous class to continue guiding them on their educational journey. This experience has allowed her to strengthen relationships with her students and support their continued growth both academically and emotionally.

Janiya’s decision to become a teacher was rooted in a powerful belief: education can break barriers and create opportunities, especially in communities that need it most. She set out to be a consistent, positive presence in children’s lives, someone who sees their potential even before they do. That mission continues to drive her every day.

“What motivates me most are the small, meaningful moments,” she shares. “Watching a student gain confidence, overcome challenges, or realize they are capable of anything they put their mind to, those moments remind me that teaching is about so much more than academics. It’s about shaping lives.”

Central to her teaching philosophy is one key belief: strong, genuine relationships are the foundation of learning. Ms. Gresham works intentionally to create a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and heard. Through constant encouragement, open communication, and unwavering support, she has become a trusted figure in her students’ lives. Many students and parents even describe her classroom as a “safe place.”

She goes above and beyond to build these connections, not just during the school day, but beyond it. Whether attending her students’ sporting events, dance recitals, or other extracurricular activities, she shows up to support them in all aspects of their lives. “When parents drop their children off at school, they become my children,” she says, a reflection of the deep care she brings to her role.

Her classroom is an engaging space filled with hands-on learning, movement, and creativity. From interactive lessons and games to themed dress-up days, she brings learning to life in ways that keep her students excited and motivated. She also fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride through initiatives like “Reading Rock Star,” where the student who reads the most books each month is celebrated, and “Star Student,” a weekly recognition of academic and behavioral excellence.

With a class of 16 students representing a wide range of learning needs and abilities, Ms. Gresham is deeply committed to meeting each child where they are. Through small group instruction, flexible grouping, and a mix of visual, auditory, and hands-on strategies, she ensures every student receives the support and challenge they need to succeed.

One of her current focuses is addressing the wide range of reading levels in her classroom. With the $1000 award from APTs Teacher of the Month, she aims to expand access to leveled texts, phonics-based interventions, and interactive literacy tools. These enhancements would allow her to further personalize instruction and provide targeted support, helping every student build confidence and foundational skills.

Being named Teacher of the Month is both an honor and a meaningful milestone in her journey. “It represents being acknowledged for the impact I make beyond just delivering lessons,” she says. “It reflects my commitment to creating a classroom where students feel supported, valued, and motivated to learn. It shows that I am walking in my purpose.”

Her message to students is simple, yet powerful, “As long as you tried your best, that is all that matters.” And in Janiya Gresham’s classroom, that belief is not just something she says, it’s something her students feel every single day.

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