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Editor’s Note: This feature originally ran on February 22, 2025 in the 2025 Progress edition (Troup County Is…). The Progress edition is a publication produced annually by the LaGrange Daily News. If you would like to pick up a copy of the 2025 Progress edition, please visit our office at 115 Broad Ste 101.

Feature by: Jeff Moore

Opportunities Mitzi Norton had to develop relationships with peers with intellectual disabilities during her high school years inspired her to enter the special education field.

This has been great for Troup County’s schools where she said she has had the honor of teaching for 21 years. 

“Throughout my time here, I’ve had the privilege of working across elementary, middle and high school levels, which has provided me with a unique perspective on the educational journey of students and families as they prepare for post-secondary opportunities and life after graduation,” she said. “These experiences have not only allowed me to form meaningful connections but have also given me the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most inspiring educators in our school system.”

Looking back on those high school years, Norton said these connections have stayed with her, shaping her career and philosophy.

“These students had such genuine, kind spirits and they always seemed to find joy in the simplest moments of daily life,” she said. “Their constant smiles and the way they embraced the world around them taught me so much. Some of these individuals became lifelong friends, and we still stay in touch to this day.”

Over her career, Norton has worked in various settings, including resource classrooms and adaptive curriculum programs. Beyond the classroom, she has expanded her impact through extracurricular activities, such as coaching the varsity cheerleading team at LaGrange High for eight years and supervising the Circle of Friends club. Founded in 2016, the club bridges the gap between students with and without differing abilities, fostering an inclusive school environment.

Norton’s passion for education, particularly special education, has been the cornerstone of more than two decades she has spent teaching in Troup County classrooms.

The journey of a special education teacher comes with unique challenges and profound rewards. Norton stressed the importance of meeting each student’s individual needs in the least restrictive environment. 

“I’ve learned and grown alongside my students, always striving to create a more inclusive school community,” she said.

One of her most transformative experiences has been organizing “Special Night-Building Community”, an event she proposed to give students with differing abilities a chance to shine. “What started as a small idea has turned into a community-wide celebration, bringing together over two thousand people, including students, teachers, staff, and community members. Now, even our elementary and middle school students participate, and it has shown me just how powerful inclusion can be,” Norton explained. 

The event, which includes basketball players, cheerleaders and band members, now draws more than 2,000 attendees and involves students from elementary to high school. 

Norton’s efforts extend beyond events. She is passionate about preparing students for life after graduation, emphasizing pathways to higher education, career training and skills development.

“We also need to make sure that families have the resources they need to support their students through this process, bridging any gaps in communication with agencies and providing access to the support students need as they prepare for life beyond graduation,” she said.

Reflecting on her career and community contributions, Norton emphasized the importance of inclusion. Special Night-Building Community has taught her the power of inclusion at its best. 

The event has shifted perspectives and fostered advocacy for all students, creating a ripple effect of acceptance and respect throughout the community.

As Norton continues her work in education and community service, her dedication remains unwavering. 

“To bring about progress and positive change in creating a place for every student, we must take the initiative and present opportunities to accomplish this goal,” she said. These experiences can be life-altering as we advocate for all students and change how people see, accept, value, include, love and respect others.” 

For Norton, the journey is as rewarding as the destination, and her impact on Troup County is a testament to the power of education, inclusion and service.

Norton’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. She was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2016 at Whitesville Road Elementary and again in 2019 at LaGrange High School. Despite the accolades, she remains humble. 

“While I am thankful for the honor, I often think there could be another way to highlight the efforts of all the teachers who are making a difference, many of whom go unrecognized,” she said. “Ultimately, I know most of us do this work not for the recognition, but because of our passion for helping others. In comparison, I don’t always feel worthy of such acknowledgment, as I am constantly surrounded by so many outstanding individuals.”

Outside the classroom, Norton’s involvement in community activities reflects her belief in the power of service. 

“If we want to see change and growth, we must be active participants,” she said. “If we want to shift perspectives about inclusive school communities and a more inclusive society, we need to take meaningful action. One of the ways we do this is by intentionally providing our students with opportunities to serve others.”

Norton said she believes that serving not only helps those in need but also brings great joy to those who serve. 

“I’ve often said that this is one of life’s best-kept secrets—so many people miss out on this powerful experience,” she added. “Troup County is where my family’s legacy lives on, and I’m honored to be able to give back to the community that shaped me into who I am today.”

Through initiatives such as Special Night-Building Community, Norton has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of inclusion and advocacy.

“Volunteering allows us to grow personally, fostering empathy, understanding and a greater appreciation for the challenges others face,” she said. “Ultimately, through service, we not only make a difference in others’ lives but also enrich our own, cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.”

Norton’s efforts extend to her participation in the Georgia Council of Administrators of Special Educators Development Academy, where she continues to learn and collaborate with educators statewide. 

“It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m learning so much from others,” she said.

Norton’s roots run deep in Troup County, a place she proudly calls home. Born and raised in the community, Norton’s life and career are deeply intertwined with the area’s schools, families and traditions. 

“My parents and grandparents went to school here, and so did my children,” Norton said. “It’s a community I’m proud to be a part of, and it’s where my family’s story has unfolded.”

Norton is the proud mother of two children, Gabby and Grant Stribling, who have carried forward the family’s values of hard work and service. Gabby recently graduated from medical school and began her residency in Jacksonville, Florida. Grant works for United Parcel Service, demonstrating the same dedication and kindness that Norton instilled in them. 

“They both continue to amaze me every day with their drive, kindness and strength,” she said.

After earning a bachelor of science in special education from Columbus State University, a master’s in curriculum and instruction from LaGrange College, and an educational specialist degree in special education from the University of West Georgia, Norton devoted her career to supporting students with differing abilities.

Currently, she serves as the exceptional education department co-chair and a member of the Adaptive Life Skills Program at LaGrange High School, a role she has held since 2016. 

For those considering a career in special education, Norton offers heartfelt advice. 

“Helping students recognize their full potential can be life-changing for both them and for you,” she said. 

While acknowledging the challenges within the public education system, she emphasized the importance of administrative support. 

“A deep, genuine understanding from leadership about their role in supporting special education is essential in the success of our program,” she said.

Norton encourages aspiring educators to ask critical questions about program support. 

“To effectively recruit and retain special education teachers, it is crucial to listen to them and actively work to meet the needs of all students,” she explained. “I encourage anyone considering a career in special education to ask the right questions about how the program is supported. This support can make all the difference in ensuring success and fostering a thriving program.”