These Birmingham teachers scored their dream job—find out where

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Gay and Nikolas have 50 years of combined teaching experience but didn’t land their dream jobs until recently.

Read on to learn five reasons why i3 Academy has become a top choice for them and other Birmingham educators.

Want to continue your teaching career at i3 Academy? Check out current openings and register for the Jan. 30 Recruitment Fair.

Meet two i3 Academy teachers

(L-R) Dr. Gay Barnes and Nikolas Gilmore (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Gay Barnes is in her first year teaching first grade full-time at i3 Elementary School after previously serving as a part-time Literacy Coach at the school. Dr. Barnes is a veteran elementary school educator who began teaching in 1987. She was the 2012 Alabama Teacher of the Year.
Nikolas Gilmore is in his 12th year of teaching and is the Band and Choir Director for i3 Middle and High School.

1. Culture of innovation

Innovation isn’t just a buzzword at i3 Academy; it’s the foundation of the school’s identity. Dr. Barnes and Mr. Gilmore describe an environment where educators are encouraged to think creatively. From project-based learning to integrating new technology, teachers are empowered to reimagine traditional teaching methods.

“We are challenged to ask ourselves what can be done to improve outcomes for each child. Each teacher is able to think outside of the box to help students discover new ways to solve problems.”

Gay Barnes, First Grade Teacher

As i3 Academy’s band and choir director, Mr. Gilmore was given the opportunity to shape the high school music program from the ground up.

“Because we have the freedom to do what needs to be done to get the job done, it has opened up so many doors. I’m able to lay the groundwork and set the standard for what a music program can be. If you have an idea, you will be given the support to make it happen.”

Nikolas Gilmore, Band and Choir Director

2. i3’s focus on collaboration

Teaching at i3 Academy means being part of a team that values collaboration. Teachers are given ample opportunities to work together, share ideas and support one another’s growth.

“I have great relationships with my fellow teachers. Everyone is willing to help one another as needed—you’re never alone. We are like family.”

Nikolas Gilmore, Band and Choir Director

This emphasis on teamwork extends beyond staff meetings. Teachers regularly collaborate on lesson planning and cross-disciplinary projects, creating a cohesive learning experience for students.

“Teaching can sometimes feel isolating. But at i3, we are continually having conversations around how we can make things better for the kids, particularly as students transition from grade to grade.”

Gay Barnes, First Grade Teacher

Read what other teachers have to say about their i3 Academy experience + why they love teaching there.

3. Student success is a priority at i3

Access to a makerspace, music, art and other learning opportunities allows students to explore and develop their skills. (Bold as a Lion Studios)

At i3, every decision revolves around the students’ success. The school endeavors to empower learners through its individualized approach to education, which focuses on developing critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence and a love for learning.

This student-centric approach is supported by small class sizes, allowing teachers to give personalized attention to each student. Knowing they play a direct role in shaping the future of their students motivates educators to give their best every day.

“At the elementary level, we have well-credentialed paraeducators as well as math and reading specialists who work alongside teachers in the classroom. They are a big help to the teachers and provide the extra support that some students may require.”

Gay Barnes, First Grade Teacher

Learn more about why families are also fond of i3 Academy.

4. i3 Academy’s supportive administration

One of the standout features of i3 Academy is the supportive administration. According to the teachers, the leadership team, led by Dr. Martin Nalls, actively listens to teachers’ ideas and concerns and takes steps to address them.

“The administration is so compassionate. They’re available to listen and encourage. When we needed a larger venue for our Christmas program, our principal [Dr. Tamala Maddox] immediately stepped in and made it happen.”

Nikolas Gilmore, Band and Choir Director

This care extends beyond professional concerns. The administration prioritizes teacher well-being, offering resources for mental health and professional development.

“You can’t put students first if you put teachers last. The school has created an environemnt where we can be the best possible advocates for the students because the administration understands the needs of the profession.”

Gay Barnes, First Grade Teacher

5. Continually raising the standard

“Not only are students being taught to take on new challenges, teachers are as well. Throughout the academic year we are given chances to advance as educators and ask ourselves, ‘How can we do this better?'”

Nikolas Gilmore, Band and Choir Director

For educators like Dr. Barnes and Mr. Gilmore, i3 Academy isn’t just a workplace; it’s a community where teachers are valued, supported, and inspired to make a difference. With its commitment to excellence, it’s no wonder that i3 has become a top choice for Birmingham’s educators.