Tuscaloosa school teacher surprised with first-ever sorority grant

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) - A Tuscaloosa elementary school teacher was chosen as the first-ever recipient of a new grant.

Southview Elementary School teacher Jeniqua Johnson received a $1,000 grant from the Tuscaloosa chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Sorority members say this was the sorority’s first Educator Award grant. Members nominated Johnson, making her the first recipient, because they saw the struggle those working in education face.

“We’re doing this to support local educators in west Alabama. About 50% of teachers who have been teaching for three years leave the field, so it’s a critical time area at this time. We’re trying to motivate and encourage to stay in the education field,” said Shante’ Morton, the Tuscaloosa Chapter President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Johnson says she was surprised to be chosen for the grant and looks forward to using the money to help her class.

“I was very surprised. I really nervous because I was thinking it can’t be,” said Johnson.

According to Johnson, there are 17 students in her class. She says she plans to use the money to buy headphones for them.

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