Hi! My name is Valerie Hipp and I am the ELA Instructional  Coach at Arab Elementary School. I began my teaching career in 2000 and have spent the majority of my career as an educator teaching within the Gadsden City School System. 

I began my preparation to become a teacher at Gadsden State Community College where I attended on a volleyball scholarship while earning an Associate in Science degree in Elementary Education. I then transferred to Jacksonville State University where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, and later earned a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama.  

I love to read, travel, and spend time with my family. My husband and I have two children, Lela and Wesley. They keep us very busy with sports. Lela plays volleyball and basketball, and Wesley plays soccer and basketball. When we have the opportunity, we enjoy going on adventures to new places together. We hope to travel to all fifty states one day! 

I love being a part of the wonderful team at AES! I am proud to be an educator and know the impact that teachers can have on young minds. I believe that educators have one of the most honorable professions in our country; a profession in which our nation and the world depend. I am dedicated to making this a fantastic year!