“Teaching is rewarding because I have the privilege of witnessing students’ growth both physically and personally,” shared Sally Cornelius. “It’s extremely fulfilling to see them overcome challenges, discover their strengths, and develop a love for learning that can last a lifetime.”
Mrs. Cornelius believes that her true calling has always been to teach. She shared that this passion was ignited at a young age and further nurtured by the elders and teachers in her life who invested in her daily.
She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from the University of Mobile. She began her teaching career in 1998, taught for six years, and then took a hiatus as she raised her own boys. She started teaching again in 2015, for a combined teaching career of 16 years. She has taught in various places and of varying ages.
“I currently teach sixth grade English/Language Arts at Causey Middle School,” Mrs. Cornelius shared. “This is a great fit for me, as I’ve always had a passion for reading, writing, and helping others express themselves. Seeing students grow as both readers and thinkers is incredibly rewarding.”
Mrs. Cornelius, as a teacher, believes that building strong relationships with her students is essential for enriching the learning experience. By fostering these connections, she creates a comfortable environment where students feel safe to share and step outside their comfort zones.
“I want my students to realize that learning is a lifelong journey, and it’s okay to make mistakes if they are willing to grow and learn from them,” she shared. “My students teach me daily about the power of perspective. They remind me that everyone comes to the classroom with unique experiences, and that can shape how they learn and view the world. Their insights inspire me to think in new ways and stay adaptable as a teacher.”
Sally Cornelius has been married to Scott for 26 years and, together, they have two sons — Breyton (20) and Micah (18). Outside of school, she enjoys thrifting, trips to the beach, and any outdoor activities with my family.
