Cristen Casey, a warm and devoted Pre-K teacher at the Brooks County Early Learning Center, has been honored as the school’s 2025 Teacher of the Year. Known for her positive spirit, playful energy, and unwavering dedication to her young learners, Casey has quickly become a cornerstone of the ELC team in just three years.
Casey’s path to the classroom reflects both heart and determination. She first earned a degree in Office Administration and Technology from Valdosta State University in 2014 before pursuing her passion for early childhood education through Wiregrass Technical College in 2022 and completing the GaTAPP program. That leap into education was sparked years ago by her own third-grade teacher, Mrs. Ervin (Barrett), who showed her what it meant to lead with patience and love.
“I was not the best at math,” Casey recalls, “but she never made me feel bad in front of my peers. She worked with me, encouraged me, and made learning feel safe. I knew then I wanted to be a teacher like her — someone who uplifts students even when they struggle.”
Today, Casey teaches all subjects in Pre-K and fills her classroom with laughter, learning, and love. She admits that one of the greatest challenges is keeping her little ones engaged during 30-minute lessons on the carpet. “I make sure to include movement breaks and fun, interactive activities. Engagement is everything at this age,” she said.
The results speak for themselves. “The most rewarding part of teaching is watching my students grow over the year. Seeing their Pre-K test scores improve makes me beam with pride,” Casey said. “And of course, all the hugs and ‘I love yous’ — I hear them more times than I can count, and each one means something.”
One of Casey’s favorite memories came during a mid-year parent conference. A mother told her that her child often plays "school" at home — and pretends to be Ms. Casey. “She repeats things I say in class and even mimics my teaching style,” she shared. “That moment reminded me how closely they watch and how deeply they care. It’s an honor to be someone they want to emulate.”
Outside of school, Casey enjoys cheering on the Atlanta Braves and Hawks, tending to her garden, and spending time with her beloved cats. Her mother, Lynne, has always supported her passion for working with children, and Casey considers her family — both human and furry — a source of strength.
Brooks County Early Learning Center Principal Derrick Jenkins praised Casey’s impact on the school community, “Ms. Casey is passionate about her job, seeks ways to improve her craft, and goes above and beyond to provide her students with a classroom experience that is filled with engaging instruction.”
With her love for early learning and her unwavering commitment to her students, Cristen Casey is a shining example of what makes Brooks County educators so special.