- December 23, 2025
When Stacy Sampson was in third grade, one teacher told her she wouldn't amount to anything.
Sampson set out to prove her wrong. The Spruce Creek High School alumna went on to graduate with her bachelor's degree from Troy University in Alabama, and later got her master's in special education from Nova Southeastern University.
She's now been teaching for 26 years. This year, she was named Teacher of the Year for Pathways Elementary, where she teaches kindergarten.
How did the nomination make her feel?
"I was overwhelmed and shocked by the kind words," Sampson said.
In becoming a teacher, Sampson followed in her mom's footsteps. Her mom taught high school and Sampson said she loved it and made it look fun.
Sampson started her education career teaching special education. Her favorite thing about being a teacher, she said, is seeing the moment a student finally gets a concept they have been working on.
It's what keeps her motivated — "When a struggling student makes big gains from the start of the year and becomes more confident in themselves," she said.
When she's not working, she loves to spend time with her husband Wayne and her family. Sampson also loves to read and helps to take care of her mother.
After obtaining her master's degree, Sampson got the chance to speak with that one teacher from third grade. She showed the teacher her degrees.
"She had no idea who I was or why I was telling her this but I made my point," Sampson said.
So her advice to students is not to give up.
"You have the power inside of you to go far," she said. "It might take you a little bit longer but if you try and do your work you will go far."
