Spotlight: Mary Travis (AL '24)

Alabama Milken Educator Mary Travis (AL ‘24) is a math coach at Dr. Robert W. Gilliard Elementary School. Travis sparks curiosity and inspires future leaders by bringing learning to life with hands-on projects. Beyond the classroom, Travis mentors new educators, shares her expertise districtwide, and fosters lasting connections with her students and their families. Travis received her Milken Educator Award on January 30, 2025.

Milken Family Foundation: How did you feel at your Milken Educator Award notification?

Well, first of all,  I was dressed as our school mascot, Gilly Gator, so I was sweating, bouncing around, and just trying not to trip and fall in front of all these people. When they called my name, I was in complete and utter shock. Someone had to tell me to take my gator head off. It was a wild, emotional and totally unforgettable moment in my life. I look back on that incredible life- changing day, and I think, “I am so lucky I wore my favorite suit for this special occasion.”

MFF: How did students respond to your Milken Award?

There was so much cheering, hugging and excitement! Many of my former students saw me on the news and reached out to me, which truly means a lot. I think seeing their teacher recognized on such a big stage also reinforced the value of education for them. Then came the real questions: “Ms. Travis, are you RICH now?!” and “Wait ... you’re not gonna leave us, are you?!” I told them, “Y’all, I’m not going anywhere!” It turned into this fun teaching moment about success and purpose and a quick math lesson as well.

MFF: What made you want to pursue a career in education?

I have always felt a calling to teach. Growing up, I had teachers who saw potential in me even when I couldn’t yet see it in myself. Their belief in me made a lasting impact, and I wanted to be that teacher for my students. It’s a career that challenges you every single day, but it also gives you the chance to shape the future in the most meaningful way.

MFF: Your hands-on activities like math breakouts and raps spark excitement in your students. How do you design these experiences to keep students genuinely engaged?

I always start by asking, “Would I be excited to do this as a student?” Engagement comes from student connection, so I look for ways to tie learning to real life, using current trends as inspiration. Whether it’s a rap to memorize steps for adding fractions or a breakout game using math puzzles, the goal is to make students active participants, not just observers. Having students help create these items creates an atmosphere of enthusiasm that has them using teamwork and applying skills without even realizing it.

MFF: As a mentor and curriculum writer, you’re deeply involved in supporting and elevating fellow educators. What do you believe is the key to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement among teachers?

Honestly, it comes down to creating a space where teachers feel comfortable being real with each other. Nobody has it all figured out, and that’s okay! Growth doesn’t come from pretending we have it all together; it comes from sharing what’s working and what’s not. When teachers feel like they can laugh, learn, and grow together without judgment, that’s when the good stuff starts happening, both for us and for our students. 

MFF: What does “success” look like for you and your students in life?

Success, to me, is seeing my students grow into confident, kind and capable people. I want them to leave my classroom not just knowing how to solve a math problem, but also knowing how to solve life problems, how to ask questions, work through challenges and believe in themselves even when things get tough. If they remember that someone saw their potential and pushed them to be their best, then I’ve done what I came here to do.

MFF: Who are your role models in teaching?

I’ve been lucky to work with some amazing educators, the kind who somehow manage to be both super inspiring and super organized (still trying to figure that one out). I really look up to teachers who lead with heart, hold high expectations and aren’t afraid to try something new.

MFF: How do you hope to be remembered by your students?

I hope my students remember me as someone who always believed in them and showed them the power of believing in themselves. Someone who made learning fun, real and instilled a love of learning. I want them to know it’s okay to make mistakes, because that’s when we learn the most. Most importantly, I hope my students know that I am always rooting for them and I cannot wait to see the positive impact they will have on this world. Trav Tribe forever.  

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?

I am currently transitioning out of the classroom and starting my first year as a math coach. I also got chosen as a member of the Alabama Public Education Paperwork Reduction Committee.