Teachers can make or break a student’s experience in a classroom. They hold the power to transform dull lessons into engaging educational moments. Edward Evans, a seasoned educator at Plant High School, is one of those teachers who goes beyond the expectations of his role, leaving a lasting impact on each student he encounters. With more than two decades of teaching experience, Evans has become a fixture at Plant, but this year marks his first time teaching Statistics Honors.
Born and raised in Alabama, Evans graduated from the University of Alabama in 1993 and swiftly embarked on his teaching career.
“I’ve been at Plant for 14 years, and before that, I taught at a high school in Polk County,” Evans explained. “This is my 23rd year teaching, and every year brings something new.”
Over the years, Evans has become widely recognized for his dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment. This commitment earned him the prestigious Diversity Teacher Award, a recognition that celebrates educators who promote understanding and respect for diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. The award honors those who effectively integrate diversity and equality into their teaching methods and overall classroom culture, ensuring all students feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to fully participate.
Evans lives by the belief that, “When you get the chance to help others, take it every time. We must, as a people, help others as much as possible, because it’s the right thing to do.”
Evans has infused this principle into both his teaching and personal life, consistently going out of his way to support students, colleagues, and community members. Whether running tutoring events for students who need help, or volunteering in local outreach programs, Evans leads by example. “He likes to teach us and cares about our grades,” senior Ayaan Gupta said. “Some teachers don’t seem to be bothered if their students are passing, but he does,” senior Emerson Crews stated.
Evans firmly believes in the power of service, both within and outside the classroom. He lives by the mantra, “When you get the chance to help others, take it every time. We must, as a people, help others as much as possible, because it’s the right thing to do.” This belief influences his daily actions. Whether he’s staying after school to help struggling students grasp complex concepts or volunteering in local outreach programs, Evans is always ready to lend a hand.
His dedication to his students and community has made him a respected figure. For Evans, teaching is about more than just conveying information; it is about fostering a deeper understanding. It’s about shaping individuals who will carry these values forward in their own lives. As he embarks on his 23rd year of teaching, Evans remains as committed as ever to making his students feel valued, respected, and capable of achieving great things, both academically and personally.