Foundation Christian Academy’s Shirley Solzman named National Teacher of the Year by the National Christian School Association

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Foundation Christian Academy is proud to announce that longtime first-grade teacher Shirley Solzman has been selected as the National Teacher of the Year by the National Christian School Association.

Solzman was formally honored during a special all-school assembly on Wednesday at 1:50 p.m. in the FCA gymnasium. NCSA Board member, Dr. Brad Schultz, presented the prestigious award to Solzman in front of students, faculty, staff and friends.

After an extraordinary 49-year teaching career that began in 1969, Solzman retired from public education in 1996 following 27 years of service. In 2003, she answered a new calling and joined the faculty at Foundation Christian Academy, where she has joyfully taught first grade for the past 22 years.

For nearly five decades, Solzman has poured her heart into educating children in the “3 R’s” while—more importantly—modeling Christ-like character every day. Her classroom is known as a safe haven and a true home away from home, where forgiveness is freely given, joy is celebrated, every student is prayed for, and each child is deeply valued. Solzman consistently emphasizes growth in heart and spirit alongside academic excellence, reflecting the love of Christ in all she does.

“Mrs. Shirley exemplifies what it means to be a lifelong educator and mentor,” said FCA Elementary principal Melissa Young. “She has witnessed—and played an essential role in—the school’s transformation into a multi-building campus now serving over 500 students.”

FCA President Dr. David Pahman added, “Forty-nine years in any career is astonishing, but to teach for 49 years and to do it so masterfully as Mrs. Shirley is truly amazing.”

The entire FCA community invites family, friends, alumni, and supporters to join in celebrating this well-deserved honor for a teacher who has touched thousands of lives with compassion, grace and unwavering dedication.