Alicia Reno

A Teach in the Peach Ambassador

  • School District: City Schools of Decatur
  • Grade Level: 3-5
  • Content: STEM
  • Position: STEM Teacher
  • RESA Region: Metro
  • Number of years teaching: 24

A 25-year teaching veteran, Alicia Reno empowers young minds as a STEM educator in the City Schools of Decatur. Named the 2025 Georgia Teacher of the Year Runner-up, she is deeply passionate about elevating the education profession by championing teacher leadership opportunities and advocating for educators both inside and outside the classroom.

Do it! There are so many opportunities for teachers to make a difference in their communities through public education. Teachers have the chance to advocate for their students, become leaders in their school and district, and change lives. What other job allows you to be a real life change maker every single day? Teaching allows you to think critically, be creative, and continue learning. It’s the best job in the world!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Every veteran teacher wants you to succeed. If you start to feel overwhelmed or have questions there are people that are here for you. Whether it is a mentor teacher, your administration, or an ambassador at Teach in the Peach reach out and someone will be more than happy to help!
I love being a teacher because every day is different. Some days bring challenges, some days bring unbridled joy, and some days touch your soul in ways you never thought possible. I get to problem solve, work collaboratively with amazing educators, and learn how to see the world through the eyes of my students. I have an opportunity to continue to grow in my practice and learn new things. I get better at my job every day and every day I know that when I walk out of my classroom I have made difference.
All 24 years of my career have been in urban schools. I like the excitement and opportunity that living in or near a city provides and I prefer to live in the community that I teach. Urban schools pose challenges that are different than other areas, but also offer opportunities to work closely with community partners and give kids the chance to get out of the classroom for real world experiences.
I am traditional, but came back to GA after 16 years in CA, so essentially also an out of stater.
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2,026 students commit to teaching profession at second annual Teach in the Peach Statewide Educator Signing Day

Signing Day