September 30, 2026 — It seemed like a normal Tuesday at Hayes Elementary School. Maybe there was a greater measure of excitement than usual, but that could be explained by renewed energy from the recent Fall Break. However, there was actually a more meaningful reason for the extra pep in everyone’s step. Kennesaw State University (KSU) Athletics, representing Conference USA and the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation, was on hand to surprise a deserving educator at the school.
Megan Eubanks, a first-grade teacher at Hayes, was recognized and celebrated through the CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers program. It’s an initiative dedicated to “elevating the teaching profession by inspiring and empowering teachers.” It does so through four distinct pathways: resources, recognition, recruitment, and professional development. Members of the KSU Athletic Department went to great efforts to shine a light on the incredible work Mrs. Eubanks does as an educator.
“I was surprised,” Mrs. Eubanks said after the presentation. “I had no idea. You know, we go through so much, and we do so much. Any kind of recognition that we get, we don't ask for it, but anytime we are recognized, it is helpful. It just tells us that somebody sees me, somebody sees what I'm doing, you know?”
Dr. Katrina Shirley, principal at Hayes, was equally thrilled to see one of her teachers receive recognition.
“I'm very excited that Mrs. Eubanks is being recognized for Extra Yard for Teachers,” Dr. Shirley emphasized. “She is always willing to take on student teachers, and she's just a wonderful teacher in the classroom, building relationships with students, and always making sure she has engaging lessons to make learning fun.”
Mrs. Eubanks was nominated for this recognition by KSU volleyball player Olivia Burrage, who is a student teacher in Mrs. Eubanks’ classroom. Burrage wanted her evaluating teacher to be celebrated because of her impact as an educator and mentor.
“Mrs. Eubanks has played such an important role in my student teaching experience,” Burrage explained. “She has shown me what it looks like to create a classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to learn. I am incredibly thankful for her mentorship and everything she has taught me, and I couldn't think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
As part of the celebration, KSU Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing and Fan Experience Jacob Dye presented Mrs. Eubanks with a commemorative game ball and a $1,000 gift card for classroom resources.
“This helps the school,” the Extra Yard for Teachers recipient noted. “I probably won't just use this $1,000 for my classroom. I will probably use it for our grade level, or something that might benefit everybody. We’ll see what we come up with. But any extra resources we get are helpful for the students and the teachers.”
Mrs. Eubanks made those comments before learning that the CFP Foundation was also presenting her school with a $9,000 grant. The Hayes community is excited about what is to come.
“We are proud to work with Conference USA and the CFP Foundation to honor Mrs. Eubanks and support Hayes Elementary,” Dye said. “What makes this recognition special is Olivia's connection to Mrs. Eubanks through her student teaching. Our student-athletes make a difference in many ways beyond sports, and this is a great example of how Kennesaw State Athletics can celebrate those who invest in them and our community.”
Mrs. Eubanks’ investment in Burrage is also an example of the high quality education Cobb Schools provides.
When asked why it is important to shine a light on local educators, Burrage responded, “It takes one person in something that everyone else thinks is small to make a big difference. That starts in the classrooms.”
Clearly, Mrs. Eubanks is making a big difference.
