Morgan Academy’s Carolyn C. Oakes was awarded the WSFA-TV news Class Act award Friday as recognition for the work she’s done in her classroom this year and her previous 30 years on the job.

The award is based on nomination letters sent into the station from schools or parents within the station’s coverage area. Based on the nomination and the fact that she was named Morgan elementary teacher of the year, it’s clear Oakes has made a big difference in her classroom and on those in the Selma and Dallas County community.

Educators are often overlooked when the backbones of a community are discussed, but it’s really teachers that lay the foundation for our youth. Oakes, who is retiring after this year following three decades on the job, and other teachers are responsible for laying the groundwork and setting a positive example for our next generation.

More often than not, educators are underpaid and have to use a lot of their own money for classroom supplies.

Their hours are endless too, as teachers are teachers whether they are in the classroom or standing in the grocery store shopping with their own families.

It’s a job where the reward doesn’t come in the form of a paycheck — rather in the smiles and laughs of the youngsters in the classroom and the gratification of seeing those same children later become productive members of society.

It’s always encouraging to see an educator; especially a local one with the dedication Oakes has, getting recognized for any accomplishment or award. We congratulate Oakes on her achievement and thank her and other longtime educators for their service to our community. Selma and Dallas County simply wouldn’t be the same without the knowledge they’ve bestowed upon so many.