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October 2025 Schools Q&A (Allison Middendorf, social studies teacher at Helena Middle School)

First, tell me more about yourself. 

I am originally from Marietta, GA, outside of metro Atlanta, and moved to Birmingham to attend Samford University in 2020. I majored in secondary education and history, and I absolutely loved my experience there. This is my second year teaching sixth grade social studies at Helena Middle School and my first year as our SGA advisor.

Can you tell me about your career in education?

I wanted to become a teacher because of my own middle and high school teachers. My teachers were kind, empathetic and challenged me to be both a better student and person. They taught me that it is okay to fail and helped me cultivate a lifelong love for learning.

What kind of impact do the students you teach have on your life as a teacher?

My students have all made me a better person. They challenge me to see each student as an individual with their own gifts and talents to bring to class. It is such an honor to celebrate each of their exciting moments and be with them during the tough ones. I am so grateful to have a career that I walk through the doors every morning excited to see my students.

What makes working with middle school students special?

I absolutely love working with middle school students! I remember middle school being a difficult time for me when I was growing up, and I always knew I wanted to end up teaching middle school. Middle school students are so fun and silly, but are also open to having the more difficult conversations when it comes to studying history.

What has been your favorite thing about working at Helena Middle over the course of your time?

My coworkers and the students have been my favorite part of working at Helena Middle School. Everyone has been so welcoming to me. Being from out of state, I don’t have any family in the area, but my coworkers have become like a second family to me. They guided me through my first year of teaching last year, and many have even helped me outside of school with car issues. My students are always telling me the best places to grab a bite to eat and fun events around the community.

Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community?

I would like to thank the Helena Community for welcoming me into their wonderful town. The community here is so special and has become a home away from home. I’m so grateful to the parents and guardians who have entrusted me to teach & love their students.