Athens High Teacher Named Alabama State Finalist

Michael May recognized as one of the top educators in the state

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:56am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a 3D-printed engineering model repeated in a tight grid pattern, utilizing flat, vibrant, and unnatural neon color palettes overlapping with heavy black photographic outlines to turn an everyday engineering object into modern pop art.An innovative Athens High School teacher's passion for hands-on engineering education is celebrated through a bold, pop art-inspired illustration.Athens Today

Michael May, a teacher at Athens High School in Alabama, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Alabama Teacher of the Year award. May, who teaches engineering design classes, was selected from over 155 educators across the state to be considered for the top honor.

Why it matters

The Alabama Teacher of the Year program is one of the state's most prestigious awards, recognizing outstanding classroom teachers. May's selection as a finalist highlights the excellence and innovation happening in Athens City Schools.

The details

May teaches Engineering Design classes within the Career and Technical Education Engineering Pathway at Athens High, where students engage in hands-on, project-based learning in areas like engineering design, 3D printing, Arduino electronics, and generative AI. With over two decades of experience in education, all within Athens City Schools, May is known for his deep commitment to innovation, achievement, and leadership in the classroom.

  • May was selected by his peers as the Athens High School Teacher in September 2025.
  • He was then named Athens City Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year at the Athens City Schools Foundation Teacher of the Year Banquet in November 2025.
  • The winner will officially be announced by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education in May.

The players

Michael May

A teacher at Athens High School in Alabama who has been named a finalist for the Alabama Teacher of the Year award. May teaches Engineering Design classes and is known for his commitment to innovation and excellence in the classroom.

Athens City Schools

The school district where Michael May has taught for over two decades. Athens City Schools is recognized for the quality of its educators and the innovative learning opportunities provided to students.

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What they’re saying

“It's truly an honor to be recognized, and it's something I don't take for granted. I'm surrounded by incredible educators in our school, our district, and throughout the state, so being included in this group means a lot.”

— Michael May, Teacher, Athens High School

“Mr. May represents the heart, passion, and excellence that define Athens City Schools. He demonstrates a deep commitment to innovation, achievement, and leadership in the classroom.”

— Athens City Schools

What’s next

The winner of the Alabama Teacher of the Year award will be announced by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education in May.

The takeaway

Michael May's selection as a finalist for the Alabama Teacher of the Year award is a testament to the high-quality educators and innovative learning environments found in Athens City Schools. His commitment to hands-on, project-based learning in engineering design and technology is inspiring students and setting a standard of excellence in the state.