"Andrew Jackson is a fourth-grade teacher at Eden Elementary in Pell City, Alabama, with special education and general education experience. As a first-year teacher, he taught a student with special needs whom he would later adopt. The student’s situation served as a catalyst that would spark Jackson’s passion for foster care, mental health advocacy, and special education.

Jackson currently serves on the Counseling and Mental Health Advisory Committee for Pell City Schools. Previously, he served on the Jefferson County Court-Appointed Special Advocates Board of Directors and as a member of the Heart Gallery Alabama Junior Board.

Jackson graduated from Samford University with a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special, Education. He earned a Master of Science Degree from the University of North Dakota in their Special Education Strategist program. Jackson also holds a Doctor of Education Degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Behavioral Health from Grand Canyon University. In December 2018, he became a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) and now serves as a candidate support provider for teachers working toward NBCT certification.

Jackson and his wife are foster parents and have adopted several children. Presently, they care for eight children with many strengths and challenges. Jackson’s children have needs ranging from Gifted and Talented to Schizoaffective Disorder and Autism. Jackson’s experiences in and out of the classroom have fueled his unwavering commitment to helping each child, regardless of their situation, grow into the person they were created to be."