Hoover City Schools
Trumi Wilkinson, a third-grade teacher at Deer Valley Elementary, was recently named the 2026 Finley Character Award recipient. Each year, the Finley Committee celebrates an educator whose character shapes culture and strengthens community, as Mrs. Wilkinson does.
In her classroom, every child feels seen, heard, and loved. She is known for her warm smile and encouraging spirit, and she builds meaningful relationships and challenges her students to grow both academically and personally. Her coworkers describe her as a steady presence and a quiet leader whose consistency, integrity, and example inspire those around her. Outside the classroom, she supports families, collaborates with teammates, and consistently advocates for what is best for students.
She fosters a positive, inclusive, and high-performing educational environment and does so with humility. She strengthens the culture of Deer Valley and makes a lasting impact on students and families.
Hoover City Schools