April 2, 2026 – Early one morning, a crew of local and national representatives from Chick-fil-A, along with the famed cow, and district leaders from Amarillo ISD burst into an Amarillo High School classroom with the surprise of a lifetime for teacher Theresa Miller.

She is the 2026 Chick-fil-A Leader Academy National Teacher of the Year. As part of her award, Theresa was presented with an iPad, a Chick-fil-A-branded pickleball set, and a $10,000 grant for Amarillo High School. You can watch the surprise here, then read on to learn more about Theresa as she answers some of our most important questions…like what her go-to Chick-fil-A order is!

What inspired you to become a teacher?

My first business teacher, Mrs. Laura Johnson, inspired me. I was in her class for about an hour, and thought to myself, "I want to be just like her." She was a great teacher, smiled all the time, and cared deeply for her students.
 

Is there a particularly memorable moment from your years of teaching that comes to mind?

Last year in the Leader Academy, we were talking about having "grit." In that class was a refugee student from the Congo. I knew her story and asked her to share her story with the class. I told the class we have a story from one of our own about the true meaning of "grit." She began by telling the class that her parents were killed in war, and she, along with her siblings were sent to a refugee camp. She asked the class, "Do you know what it is like to wake up and have no hope?" She continued to tell her story about how she got out of the refugee camp and finally ended up in Amarillo. Her story was so impactful for the students. I will NEVER forget how quiet the room was as she told her story. The class cheered for her when she finished.
 

You mentioned that you've taught about Chick-fil-A's business model for years. But we want to know what your go-to Chick-fil-A order is?

8-count nugget combo with diet lemonade.
 

Do you have a favorite book?

"Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table," by Louie Giglio.
 

What went through your mind the instant you learned you're the CFA Leader Academy National Teacher of the Year?

I could hardly believe it. I never once ever imagined that this would happen. I felt appreciative and grateful that I have had the opportunity to bring the Leader Academy to my school.
 

What is the most useful item in or on your desk?

My computer.
 

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
 

What is your favorite piece of advice to give?

I tell my students all the time, "Treat Others the Way You Want to be Treated."
 

Who inspires you now?

My husband. He is my greatest cheerleader and my anchor in the storm. He is a servant leader.
 

How many years have you been a teacher?

35 years--27 years at Amarillo High School.