As the nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of American history, educators across the country are helping the next generation understand the founding principles that continue to shape the United States. For Tuscaloosa teacher and James Madison Foundation fellow Jaclyn Foster, that mission begins in the classroom.
Driven by a passion for civic education and a commitment to lifelong learning, Jaclyn pursued a Master of Arts in Secondary Education (General Social Science 6-12 Certification) through The University of Alabama Online to deepen her knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and strengthen the way she teaches it to her students. Her journey was made possible through the prestigious James Madison Graduate Fellowship, awarded by the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation, which provides $24,000 “to individuals desiring to become outstanding teachers of the American Constitution.”
“That opportunity made it especially important for me to select a program that aligned with both academic quality and flexibility,” she said.
As a full-time teacher balancing work, family life and graduate school, Jaclyn needed a program that would allow her to continue serving her students while advancing her education. UA Online offered that balance.
“I chose UA Online because it was the best fit for both my professional goals and personal circumstances,” she said. “As a full-time teacher, wife and mother, I needed a program that would allow me to continue working while completing my degree.”
Even as an online student, Jaclyn found herself closely connected to The University of Alabama community, especially as a Tuscaloosa resident.
“That combination of accessibility, strong academic support and a sense of connection made UA Online the ideal choice for me.”
Strengthening Civic Education
For Jaclyn, earning a master’s degree was about more than professional advancement — it was about creating a richer learning experience for her students.
“I see myself as a lifelong learner and am always looking for ways to grow as an educator,” she said. “I want to continually improve my ability to engage my students and deepen their understanding, especially when it comes to the U.S. Constitution. This degree allows me to strengthen my content knowledge and bring more depth, accuracy and enthusiasm into my classroom.”
Jaclyn was challenged by faculty to think more deeply about the subjects she teaches. Their guidance helped her stay current with evolving instructional practices while providing new perspectives she could immediately apply in the classroom.
An Online Experience Built on Support
Although her coursework was completed online, Jaclyn said she never felt alone in the process.
“My online student experience was incredibly positive and rewarding, largely because of the exceptional support I received from my professors.”
She credits Dr. Cory Callahan and Dr. Terrance Lewis for helping her navigate both her degree requirements and the expectations of the James Madison Fellowship.
“The dedication, encouragement and willingness to invest extra time made a significant difference in my academic journey,” she said.
Recognition for Excellence
Jaclyn's commitment to her studies and profession was recognized during Honors Day, where she received both the Most Outstanding Graduate Student Award and the Adolph Crew Award from the College of Education.
“As an online student, it can sometimes feel like your hard work happens behind the scenes, so being recognized by the college and university made me feel genuinely seen and valued,” she said.
“It serves as a meaningful reminder that dedication and perseverance, no matter the learning format, do not go unnoticed.”
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Jaclyn continues the work of preparing future citizens to understand the U.S. Constitution and the responsibilities that come with it — one lesson, one classroom and one student at a time.
Studying at a distance. Never alone. Come see what exceptional support feels like with our UA Online degree and certificate programs.