A Natchez High teacher is among the finalists for the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE)  2024 Mississippi Teacher of the Year.

Tamla Hughes teaches English to grades 10 through 12 and has been named a finalist from the 2nd Congressional District.

Her personal philosophy snapshot reads, “As a teacher, I may not be able to change the world; but if I can reach one child, perhaps that child can.”

The Mississippi Teacher of the Year program recognizes exemplary teachers in the state. The award recipient will be asked to share expertise through various presentations, professional development and activities for the improvement of education.

The recipient also will receive a $5,000 stipend and will represent Mississippi in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

The recipients will be announced during a program set for 11 a.m. April 26, at the Jackson Convention Complex in Jackson.