Carla Doyle Chosen 2023/2024 Middleton High School Teacher of the Year
Middleton High School (MHS) recently recognized Ms. Carla Doyle as its 2023/2024 Teacher of the Year. Teaching, an unexpected career for Ms. Doyle, has grown over almost 21 years while at MHS and become her life passion.
“I had never really thought about becoming a teacher. I was working a lot as a nurse when Carla Clifft, the Hardeman County CTE Director at the time, called me and asked me if I would be interested in teaching healthcare classes at Middleton High. At the time, I didn’t really think I would be interested in teaching, and I told her that I just didn’t think I could do it,” said Ms. Doyle, who was approached again several months later by Ms. Clifft. “My husband and I prayed about it, and we both felt like this might be where God wanted me to be. It’s hard to explain. We just felt a sense of peace about this decision. I didn’t really want to go into teaching at that point in my life, but it goes to prove that sometimes what we want isn’t the same thing as what God wants. I’ve been blessed more than I ever dreamed. This decision has proven to me that when we sincerely ask God for guidance, we’ll never go wrong.”
Following God’s lead has led Ms. Doyle on a path that did not start in education. Prior to working in Health Science Education at MHS, she worked as an RN in the areas of cardiac critical care and dialysis. Ms. Doyle also worked with her father, Carl Gibson, doing contract work for BellSouth and some medical transcription. She currently teaches Health Science, Anatomy & Physiology/Medical Terminology, and Nurse Education (CNA) classes at MHS. Ms. Doyle also works as the HOSA advisor, BETA advisor, and Senior Class sponsor.
According to Kelsey E. Kirk, MHS Assistant Principal, Ms. Doyle had to meet a number of requirements to be chosen as a Teacher of the Year candidate before she was voted on by her peers. Ms. Doyle’s experience working with students in the classroom, on campus in advisory roles, and in the community while promoting education, shined a light on the qualities required to be named Teacher of the Year.
“I have had the privilege of working with Carla for the last 14 years at MHS, and I continue to be impressed by her unwavering commitment to helping students achieve their goals. She is always willing to give her time and energy to support students, no matter what they need,” said Ms. Kirk. “A prime example of her dedication occurred this year when several students were struggling with their online Anatomy and Physiology course. Mrs. Doyle selflessly sacrificed her planning period to tutor these students, ensuring they were better prepared for their upcoming assessments.”
Ms. Kirk also shared that HOSA has excelled at competitions under the leadership of Ms. Doyle.
“Her students regularly receive industry certifications, providing them with valuable credentials and opening doors to opportunities they might not have had otherwise. In addition to HOSA, Carla is a co-sponsor of BETA and actively participates in competitions with those students as well. Her passion for student success and her constant willingness to go above and beyond is a true testament to her dedication as an educator,” said Ms. Kirk. “Carla is the epitome of a team player. She understands that the success of MHS is a collective effort, involving both students and faculty. Always willing to lend a hand, Carla consistently steps up to support whatever is needed. Whether it’s offering suggestions, contributing her time and efforts, or actively participating in school events and activities, she plays a crucial role in creating a positive and collaborative environment. We are fortunate to have team players like Carla, who help make MHS a place of success and opportunity for all.”
Ms. Doyle’s history with MHS goes further than her teaching years at the school. As a graduate of the MHS Class of 1991, she recognizes the importance teachers have in the lives of their students. As many of her former teachers encouraged Ms. Doyle during those school years, she hopes to do the same for her students.
“When I was in high school, I was very active in DECA, and my teacher was Larry Smalley. Some of my best memories were trips we took with DECA and activities relating to DECA. Not all students are athletes and need to be reminded they can excel in other things. By taking students to competitions such as HOSA competitions, students are given an opportunity to develop leadership skills, receive recognition, and excel in competition based on knowledge and healthcare skills. This also helps prepare them for careers and education after graduation,” said Ms. Doyle, who values the relationships she has made with her students. “I love seeing my students become successful! I also love having the same students for three to four years straight. We become more like family. After my students graduate, they often reach out and keep me updated on their lives and careers. It’s such a blessing to know that I played a role in helping them find a career they love and are passionate about.”
Ms. Kirk agreed with Ms. Doyle and noted the value she has brought to MHS and the lives of the students she teaches.
“Carla Doyle is deeply invested in Middleton High School. As a 1991 graduate of MHS, and with both of her children also graduating from here { Middleton’s Madison Doyle Named Class of 2024 Valedictorian }, she truly embodies the spirit of a Middleton Tiger. Carla has a deep love for this school and is fully committed to its success. She is dedicated to our students, our school community, and the wonderful things we strive to achieve here at MHS. Her connection to this school runs deep, and it is clear that she cares deeply about its continued growth and success,” said Ms. Kirk.
Ms. Doyle accepted her recognition while also giving praise to her co-workers, who create a supportive and encouraging environment for each other as well as the students at MHS.
“I work with some amazing people at MHS, so I never really thought I would be chosen. Since I have been working at MHS, we have gone through many changes. Throughout this past year, we’ve faced many challenges. However, Mr. Crocker and Mrs. Kirk actually want to hear our concerns and what students and teachers have to say. The people working at MHS, not just the teachers, but the assistants and cafeteria staff included, work hard to make our school better,” said Ms. Doyle. “It’s such a blessing to work with people who listen, lift you up, challenge you, and celebrate your successes. This award has helped me become aware of so much I have been taking for granted. Just like the students, sometimes we need that extra push or someone to let us know that we are making a difference.”
Already this school year in Hardeman County, we have seen the positive effects of student recognition as well as teacher recognition. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way resulting in accomplishments which have lasting effects on others.
“I hope they [students] realize that I believe in them and know they can do whatever they want to achieve in life as long as they stay focused and work hard. Sometimes they just need someone to believe in them and tell them they’re special,” said Ms. Doyle, who feels honored and blessed as the MHS 2023/2024 Teacher of the Year.
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