The Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance has selected three Birmingham City Schools educators as the best in their fields.
Alphonzo Lewis of Glen Iris Elementary has been named the Sports Professional of the Year (pictured above at left), while Rodney Dorsey of Jackson-Olin High School (center) has earned High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year and Jovanka Ward of Ramsay High School (right) is the Health Educator of the Year.
The trio will be honored a the organization's conference, to be held on Monday, November 17, 2025 at the Hyatt Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover, Alabama.
About ASAHPERD
The Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (ASAHPERD) is proudly celebrating 100 years of supporting educators throughout Alabama. Each year, the organization honors teachers and coaches for their exceptional contributions.
Being named Teacher of the Year or Sport Professional of the Year by ASAHPERD is a prestigious distinction that acknowledges outstanding dedication, expertise, and impact in the fields of coaching, health, and physical education. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to student development, implement innovative teaching strategies, and provide exemplary leadership within the educational community.
Beyond recognizing individual excellence, the award serves to inspire educators statewide and to raise the standards of education across Alabama. Recipients are nominated and selected from candidates throughout the entire state.