Congratulations are in order for the five teachers selected as finalists for the VyStar 2025 Teacher of the Year! This year’s finalists were revealed during a series of surprise visits on Friday, December 13, 2024, by Duval County school district leaders and community partners, including the Jacksonville Public Education Fund.
The finalists are:
- Vincent Taylor, Cedar Hills Elementary
- Kimberly Niebauer, Loretto Elementary
- Aubrey Albaracin, Greenland Pines Elementary
- Stephanie Weathington, San Jose Elementary
- Michael Steinhardt, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier expressed his excitement, emphasizing the significance of celebrating teachers and recognizing their impact. “This is one of the greatest moments, because it’s celebrating teachers and this is an opportunity for me as well as all of our sponsors to really pour into our teachers and tell them that they have purpose and impact,” said Bernier.
The day began with a visit to Cedar Hills Elementary, where math interventionist and coach Vincent Taylor was surprised with the news. Overcome with emotion, Taylor celebrated with his students, staff, and family, performing a choreographed dance. “It’s one thing to do the work, but then to see so many appreciate the work and uplift you, it really feels good,” Taylor said.
At Loretto Elementary, gifted education teacher Kimberly Niebauer was greeted by the surprise team and Jaxson Deville. “This is my 25th year teaching, so to do this now just feels incredible,” said Niebauer.
At Greenland Pines Elementary, special education teacher Aubrey Albaracin was also moved by the recognition. “We have so many great teachers, not only at my school, but all over Duval, so to be considered a top five (candidate) is beyond amazing,” Albaracin remarked.
Third-grade reading teacher Stephanie Weathington at San Jose Elementary was showered with roses from her students and staff during her surprise announcement. “I’m over the moon excited, and it’s exciting to be recognized,” said Weathington.
The final stop was at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where social studies teacher Michael Steinhardt expressed his gratitude. “To be one of five finalists is just insane to think about,” Steinhardt said.
The winner of VyStar 2025 Teacher of the Year will be announced at the EDDY Awards on January 18, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.