FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Alabaster-Pelham Rotary Club awarded its January “Teacher of the Month” honor to Joe Ash, a science teacher at Thompson Middle School for 36 years.

“Teaching is a wonderful profession. It gives as much back as you give,” Ash said.

TMS Principal Melissa Youngblood was present at the club’s luncheon to honor Ash and also accept a $500 check to be used toward literacy projects at the school.

“Joe has a special way of making connections with the students,” Youngblood said. “He leads by example and is passionate about science.”