MADISON – Amy Patel, theatre teacher at James Clemens High School, had a thrilling surprise on Aug. 24.

During that weekend, Patel learned that the Alabama Conference of Theatre had chosen her to receive the prestigious Dorothy Schwartz Outstanding Educator Award.

Patel earned the award for her contributions to the theatre community in Alabama. The Schwartz Award recognizes individuals who have made significant impact to theater education in Alabama.

This award honors educators who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, directing and promoting theatre arts. Their work has enhanced the quality of theatre and performing arts throughout the state. (bing.com)

James Clemens Theatre students shared Patel’s thrill for the honor. The students created a video to congratulate their mentor.

On the video, the students described Patel as, “Passionate and really caring . . . Super intelligent and has so many ideas . . . She’s like ‘pizazz.’” Others said she is “kind, caring and helpful.”

Patel is “understanding and fair. . . She is just a very great person, even outside the classroom. She is iconic . . . she is the moment,” theatre students said. “Mrs. Patel is our number-one cheerleader and will always have your back.”

The video included comments of praise from technical directors who have worked closely with Patel. Michael Merritt and Bryan Comer, former and current technical theatre teachers at James Clemens, respectively, praised their colleague.

The students’ video ended with the message, “We love you, Mrs. Patel.”

The award’s namesake, Dorothy ‘Dottie’ Schwartz, was an American singer and original member of The Chordettes, a popular vocal quartet. The Chordettes gained fame in the 1950s with hits like “Mr. Sandman” and “Lollipop.”

Choosing an award recipient starts with nominations from peers, students or community residents. For evaluation, a committee reviews the candidate’s impact on theater education and the arts community. The committee considers the candidates’ teaching history, innovative practices and overall influence.

Amy Patel, her husband Sandy and sons Kieran and Connery were named Madison Family of the Year in 2018.

She received a bachelor’s degree in English and language arts at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She earned a master’s degree in directing at Chicago College of Performing Arts and Roosevelt University. She is a National Board Certified Teacher.

In 2013, Patel was named Alabama State Secondary Theatre Teacher of the Year. She was Teacher of the Year at James Clemens in 2016.