Eugene Field Elementary had a teacher recognized last week as a McDonald’s Outstanding Educator for the second year in a row.

Special education instructor Alexa Everett was selected out of over 480 nominations from community members, parents and fellow educators to be named one of the top teachers in franchisee Andi Hilburn-Vaini’s service area, according to McDonald’s spokesperson Amanda Campbell.

“Her caring nature and commitment to student growth shine through in everything she does,” the fast-food chain stated in its announcement on Facebook. “Whether progress comes in small steps or big leaps, Ms. Everett celebrates every success and encourages each child to reach their full potential.”

The successful nomination came from colleague Jennifer Morin, a speech teacher, who variously noted that Everett “goes above and beyond,” is “patient and organized," and serves as "a light in our building." The elementary school further acknowledged over its social media that Everett “brings learning to life with hands-on, interactive and engaging lessons.”

Everett has been teaching at Eugene Field for six years. During the first half of her tenure, she worked in the functional skills classroom, and since the 2023/24 school year, she has been co-teaching in first and second grade. The honor follows on the heels of Eugene Field's Teresa Webb having been named a 2024 McDonald’s Outstanding Educator.

Since the recognition program was launched in 2020, Poplar Bluff Schools has celebrated seven awardees in total, including: Amy Ethridge of O’Neal during its inaugural year; Aleanna Moore of the Middle School in 2021; both Ashley Blume of Oak Grove and Lake Road’s Teresa Hefner the following year; and Crystal Huddleston of PBHS in 2023.

Tony Seabaugh, McDonald’s area supervisor, presented Everett a $100 Visa gift card on Wednesday, Oct. 29, along with 100 of the restaurant’s popular ‘Boo Buckets’ as part of its continued sponsorship of the elementary school’s Student of the Month program.

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Cutline: Tony Seabaugh, McDonald’s area supervisor, presents Eugene Field teacher Alexa Everett with a certificate for being named a 2025 Outstanding Educator.