Terrance Thomas Jr. was lost.
After four years of high school and two more at East Mississippi Community College, Thomas still hadn’t decided on a career.
That’s when Katina Miller, Thomas’ mother, urged him to study education at Mississippi University for Women.
“I didn’t want to do it, but I still wanted to go to college,” Thomas said. “I was excited to dress up and go into a school, but I still didn’t think that was something I wanted to do, but my first day in the classroom (at Franklin Academy in Columbus) just helping and interacting with kids and getting the love, I knew instantly I had to rethink my plans.”
Four years after completing his internships, Thomas doesn’t have any second thoughts about becoming a teacher. In fact, he can’t envision doing anything else because he can be himself and impart the lessons a family of educators passed on to him.
On Wednesday, the Lowndes County School District recognized Thomas as its Teacher of the Year in a ceremony at the Career Technology Center. The honor earns the fifth-grade social studies and science teacher at Caledonia Elementary School a chance to compete against his peers from the state to see who will be named Mississippi Teacher of the Year.
“Everybody is good at something,” Thomas said. “The biggest problem with people is figuring out what they are good at. It was like I was pulling a rubber band and I had people around me pulling me in the correct direction. I didn’t know what I was good at and I was lost trying to find out. When they put me where they knew I could thrive and I tried it, I realized this is probably what I am good at. It was something I avoided or didn’t take on, but that responsibility is what I needed to help me grow.”
Thomas, who is in his fourth year at CES, is following in the footsteps of his mother, his grandmother, Willie Miller, and great-grandmother, Vernice Bryant. He thought about pursuing psychology further after taking several courses at EMCC, but he said his mother and grandmother convinced him to go into education. Thomas earned a bachelor’s degree from The W and completed teacher internships at Franklin Academy, New Hope Elementary School and CES before he was convinced he had found his calling.
Thomas harkens back to something a teacher told him a long time ago: “The most rewarding job you can have is a teacher.”
Today, that sentiment rings true when Thomas receives a letter from a student. He said he is blessed to have an opportunity to be a teacher and to be considered for the awards he has received. Thomas Jr. credits his administrators and peers for helping him because there is still so much he doesn’t know.
CES Principal Roger Hill said he was honored to recommend Thomas for the district’s Teacher of the Year. He has watched Thomas inspire, engage and uplift CES students and staff daily and feels he embodies the best qualities of an educator and mentor.
“One of Mr. Thomas’ greatest strengths is his ability to build genuine relationships with all students,” Hill said. “His positive influence extends beyond his classroom, as he knows the names of students throughout the building and takes the time each day to connect with them. Many students, particularly boys who may struggle with behavior, look up to Mr. Thomas as a role model, and he is often seen encouraging and guiding them with patience and respect. This consistent support has transformed not only their academic lives, but also their personal development.”
Erica Lewis, the academic coach and tutor assessment coordinator at CES, said Thomas is a “team player” who is always ready to assist colleagues by sharing ideas, covering classes or supporting school events. She said his approachable nature and collaborative spirit make him a joy to work with and foster a positive environment for students and staff.
“He creates engaging lessons that link science and social studies concepts to real-world applications, helping students see the relevance of their learning,” Lewis said. “Beyond academics, he emphasizes character development, teaching lessons on integrity, perseverance and success. His calm demeanor and ability to build strong relationships make his classroom a safe, supportive space where every student feels valued.”
Amy Shepherd, a fifth-grade teacher at CES, said Thomas has put his “whole heart” into serving students. She said Thomas seeks advice, works hard and he has just as high expectations for his students as he does for himself.
“He goes above and beyond in his teaching and his relationships with the students,” Shepherd said. “They know he expects their best, and they also know how much he cares about them as people and not just as students. He is always there to encourage them in all areas.”
Whether it’s with his students or his son, Terrance III, who is 3 years old, Thomas will use the hardships he faced as a teenager as teaching moments to help others push themselves and believe they can accomplish anything.
“(Being a teacher) makes me feel like I am doing something in this world,” Thomas said. “Some people get joy out of receiving, but my joy is giving. I feel good when I can help somebody, and I love helping people.”
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 47 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
