Instructor

Michael Ricketts is married to Teresa Hand Ricketts who is the math coach at Cherokee Elementary School.  Their son Heath works for Tuscumbia Gas and Water as a supervisor.  He is married to his wife, Lauren, and they have three children: Dax, 9; Addie Kate, 5, and Annie, 3.  Their daughter Emily teaches math at Russellville Middle School, and she is married to her husband, Andrew.

Currently a Computer Science teacher at Colbert Heights High School, Michael has a rich and diverse professional background. Beginning his programming career in 1985 within the U.S. Air Force, he served as a systems programmer on Honeywell mainframe computers. Mike's early experiences involved programming using paper punch cards, a stark contrast to modern computer terminals, fostering an appreciation for technological advancements. After leaving the Air Force, he held various technical roles, such as the Technical Programming Manager for the Tennessee Department of Employment Security and a Senior Systems Engineer for Mobius Management Systems. In 2003, Mike joined Colbert County Schools as a Network Technician, dedicating 16 years of service before transitioning to his current role in education.

In his 5th year teaching Computer Science in a Career Tech Environment, Mike brings a wealth of experience to Colbert Heights High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of West Alabama and is actively pursuing a Masters' of Education Degree in Career and Technical Education Leadership. Recognized for his academic excellence, Mike has received numerous awards, including the Ralph M. Lyon Award for Academic Excellence and the University of West Alabama National Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni Award in 2019. Holding various Alabama Teacher Certifications and an array of Microsoft Technical Associate Certifications, Mike is well-equipped to lead courses such as Information Technology Fundamentals and Object-Oriented Programming as part of the Pathway for Alabama Computer Science program. Additionally, he serves as the SkillsUSA Faculty Advisor, contributing to the development of the next generation of IT professionals.

Email: mricketts@colbertk12.org 

Website: https://www.michael-ricketts.com/