Cleveland City Schools proudly announces the recipients of the 2024-2025 District Teachers of the Year and Novice Teachers of the Year awards. These distinguished educators embody excellence, commitment, and a profound dedication to their students' success.
District Teachers of the Year:
Jessica Beard, Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary
Jessica Beard has been named the 2024-2025 District Elementary Teacher of the Year. Principal Sara Whitener praised her, saying, “Jessica Beard is the example of a dedicated educator. She is caring, compassionate, and works diligently to meet the needs of all of her students. Jessica advocates for her students and supports them academically, socially, and emotionally so that they are all able to have a successful first year in our school. We are thrilled that she has been chosen to represent our district as Teacher of the Year. No one is more deserving!”
Cecily Williams, Cleveland Middle School
Cecily Williams has been recognized as the 2024-2025 District Middle School Teacher of the Year. Principal Nat Akiona shared, “Cecily Williams works hard to create a classroom environment where success is accomplished through kindness and genuine care. Her formula for creating this is a unique mixture of teamwork with her classroom counterpart and a great deal of investment in relationships with her students and their families. Mrs. Williams is a great ambassador for this profession.”
Karina Burgueno, Cleveland High School
Karina Burgueno, an exceptional educator at Cleveland High School, is the 2024-2025 District High School Teacher of the Year. Principal Bob Pritchard said, “Karina Burgueno is an example of what it means to be an educator. She works tirelessly, speaks life into her students, and dedicates herself to creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all cultures and backgrounds through her volunteer work. Her love for kids and her dynamic approach to teaching inspire us all. Congratulations to our Teacher of the Year, Karina Burgueno!”
District Novice Teachers of the Year:
Laura Stilltrotter, Blythe-Bower Elementary
Laura Stilltrotter has been named the 2024-2025 District Elementary Novice Teacher of the Year. Dr. Joel Barnes, Principal of Blythe-Bower Elementary, noted, “Mrs. Stilltrotter, in her third year of teaching, operates like a seasoned veteran. Her enthusiasm in the classroom and her love for her students are evident in everything she does. We are so blessed to have her on our team!”
Grace Garrett, Cleveland Middle School
Grace Garrett has been recognized as the 2024-2025 District Middle School Novice Teacher of the Year. Principal Nat Akiona expressed, “Grace Garrett integrates a variety of instructional strategies and classroom protocols to create a fun and caring environment for her students. Ms. Garrett is also an integral part of the whole-school culture here at Cleveland Middle, finding involvement on various committees, clubs, and in the fine arts. Her enthusiasm is infectious and her kind demeanor makes her a perfect fit for this profession!”
Nichole Armstrong, Cleveland High School
Nichole Armstrong is the 2024-2025 District High School Novice Teacher of the Year. Principal Bob Pritchard shared, “Nicole Armstrong is a ball of positive energy and a true inspiration to her students. As a cosmetology teacher, she brings excitement and excellence to her craft, creating a classroom environment where students thrive. Her passion equips them with skills for post-secondary success, and we couldn’t be prouder of her accomplishments. Congratulations, Mrs. Armstrong!”
Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools, expressed his pride in our honorees, stating, "These outstanding educators represent the heart of Cleveland City Schools. Their dedication, compassion, and innovative teaching methods set a high standard for academic excellence and student engagement. We are proud to have them represent our district."
School-Level Winners:
Arnold Memorial Elementary: Tara Pollard
Blythe-Bower Elementary: Dorian Franklin
Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary: Jessica Beard
Cleveland Middle School: Andrea Johnson, Cori Lawson, and Cecily Williams
Cleveland High School: Karina Burgueno, Del Halfacre, and Seth Lamagna
Mayfield Elementary: Erin Cole
Ross Elementary: Allan DiSiena
Stuart Elementary: Ashley McAlister
Yates Primary: Jessica Morgan
Celebration of Excellence
The district level educators will go on to represent Cleveland City Schools at the regional and state level. Their recognition highlights Cleveland’s commitment to nurturing a culture of leadership, learning, and excellence in education.