South Surprises Fonde Elementary During Extra Yard for Teachers
Posted on September 16, 2026
The celebration brought University of South Alabama football players, cheerleaders and Prowlers, along with the Jaguar Pep Band, SouthPaw and Ms. Pawla, to the school for a high-energy surprise pep rally recognizing educators and the difference they make in the lives of students every day.
The big reveal came Sept. 15 when Dr. Angela T. Barlow, dean of South’s College of Education and Professional Studies, presented Fonde Elementary Principal Joy Gould with a $1,000 check through the College Football Playoff Foundation's Extra Yard for Teachers initiative. Rebecca Chasteen, a Fonde Elementary teacher, was also surprised with a $100 classroom supply award.
“The $1,000 Extra Yard for Teachers grant will provide essential resources that enrich classroom instruction and improve student learning outcomes," Gould said. “With these funds, teachers will be able to create innovative and engaging learning experiences that increase student achievement, encourage active participation and support the diverse needs of all learners.”
For Chasteen, the recognition was a reminder that the work educators put in each day does not go unnoticed. “This really makes me know that things are being seen,” Chasteen said, noting the time teachers devote to their students before and after school and on weekends.
The Big Reveal is part of South Alabama's Extra Yard for Teachers Week, Sept. 12-19, and marks the 10th year the College of Education and Professional Studies and South Alabama Athletics have partnered to celebrate and support local educators.
“For 60 years, the College of Education and Professional Studies has been preparing educators who change lives in classrooms and communities across our region and beyond,” Barlow said. “Extra Yard for Teachers gives us an opportunity to celebrate the people carrying that legacy forward every day and to remind them that their work is seen, valued and deeply appreciated.”
The Celebration Continues
Extra Yard for Teachers Week continues Saturday, Sept. 19, when the South Alabama Jaguars take on Ohio at Hancock Whitney Stadium at 6 p.m.
Pre-K-12 educators can receive one free ticket to the game, with discounted $15 tickets available for family and friends.
Educators also are invited to a free Extra Yard for Teachers Tailgate hosted by the College of Education and Professional Studies before the game. The tailgate begins at 3:30 p.m. near Gate 1 and the Kids Zone and will include complimentary food, beverages and giveaways.
Teachers attending the game can enter the Amazon Classroom Wish List Giveaway. Twenty-five educators will receive $200 toward their Amazon Classroom Wish Lists and will be notified by email the following week.
Extra Yard for Teachers is a national initiative of the College Football Playoff Foundation dedicated to supporting and celebrating educators and elevating the teaching profession.
For educator tickets, discounted family and friend tickets, parking information and additional event details, visit SouthAlabama.edu/ExtraYardForTeachers.
Surrounded by University of South Alabama cheerleaders and mascots from both schools,
Dr. Angela T. Barlow, left, dean of the USA College of Education and Professional
Studies, presents a check to Joy Gould, center, Fonde Elementary School principal,
and Rebecca Chasteen, Fonde Elementary School teacher.
