McClelland named Abbeville High’s Teacher of the Year

Cassie Theall McClelland sings the words of the Abbeville High alma mater every Friday morning, along with the chorus over the intercom speakers, because she “bleeds red and grey.”
“I came to school here, and teaching here now feels like I’m right where I belong,” says McClelland. “Being chosen by my colleagues affirms my choice to be here and part of this community, and this family. I am so proud to be a Wildcat.”
According to principal Brett Darby, Abbeville High School faculty members chose McClelland as their 2021-22 Teacher of the Year, a unique and deserved choice. Most teachers awarded this title are teachers of core subjects, like math or English.
“It’s fulfilling to see a member of our Special Education Department (SPED) celebrated like this because they often do so much work behind the scenes,” says Darby. “With Cassie, she’s not only servicing the kids on her SPED caseload, but she’s working with our entire student body on many levels.”
Sixteen years into her teaching career, she has taught the last three years at AHS. Coming from J.H. Williams before that, she had the unique opportunity to teach some of the same students a second time as they came through their high school careers.
“Having that opportunity to see their growth and the evolution that happens from grade level to grade level and from school to school not only filled my heart but also enlightened me as an educator,” says McClelland.
McClelland works with ULL to facilitate their continuing education programs Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search, both programs that connect high school students with the university’s services early. This involves preparing students for the ACT and providing after-school tutoring for qualifying students.
In addition, McClelland teaches several homebound students each school year.
“I really believe that all students can learn, no matter their strengths and weaknesses,” states McClelland. “Some of these kids, you wouldn’t believe the adversity they face outside of these school walls, but they still deserve every chance at that diploma.”
From here, McClelland will apply for the title of Vermilion Parish Teacher of the Year and then on to the state level if she advances. If it stops at the school level, though, she says she’s well satisfied with the title.
“To have the support of the people I see every day at work, the people who help me push these kids through to see the light of success is the biggest reminder that I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.”