Olivia Criswell Named Tate High School Teacher of the Year

October 2, 2026

Olivia Criswell has been named the Tate High School Teacher of the Year.

“Mrs. Criswell is an outstanding biology teacher who represents the very best of Tate High School. Her dedication to her students, commitment to academic excellence, and passion for teaching make a lasting impact in her classroom and across our school community,” Tate Assistant Principal Austin Courson said on Thursday. “We are proud to have (her) represent Tate High School and the incredible educators who make a difference for our Aggies each day.”

Criswell was chosen from a field of five finalists. The other finalists were:

  • Lauralee Best – Visual Art Educator
  • Melissa Gibbs – Agricultural Educator
  • Elizabeth Mealy – Performing Arts Educator
  • Amanda Williams – English Language Arts Educator

Pictured top: (L-R) Tate assistant principals Greg Blackmon and Somer Bridges, Teacher of the Year Olivia Criswell, Principal Emily King, and Assistant Principal Austin Courson. Pictured below: Criswell in her biology classroom. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under FRONT TOP