WASHINGTON, D.C. – Every year, American teachers work tirelessly not only to educate their students in the classroom, but also to inspire future generations of children to grow and thrive. Too often, however, teachers are faced with bureaucratic red tape they are forced to navigate, making educating the nation’s youth less effective and less rewarding than it should be.
In an effort to recognize and celebrate some of America’s most outstanding, impactful, and formative teachers, who are truly the foundation of education, Independent Women launched an inaugural “Teacher of the Year” nomination process in August.
After conducting a months-long search evaluating dozens of exceptional nominations, Independent Women is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 “Teacher of the Year” award:
- Monica Morton, The Bolles School in Florida
- Jade Gizzi, Pelham High School in New Hampshire
- Rosella Sena, Santo Niño Regional Catholic School in New Mexico
- Gabriela Tagliamonte, Wilson Middle School in Ohio
- Megan Tucker, Hillsboro Charter Academy in Virginia
The five finalists will be recognized in a profile article for Independent Women’s Features (IW Features) “Champion Women” series. The feature will highlight each finalists’ experience as a teacher, why they became teachers, and what they love about teaching. IW Features, the grassroots storytelling and original journalism arm of Independent Women, brings to life the extraordinary accomplishments of everyday Americans.
In January, one remarkable teacher will be named the 2025 “Teacher of the Year” and featured in an IW Features short documentary celebrating their passion for teaching, leadership in the classroom, and lasting impact on students.
The 2025 “Teacher of the Year” will be announced in January 2026
Earlier this year, Independent Women’s released the report, “Give Teachers A Break: Cutting Red Tape to Unleash the Potential of America’s Great Teachers,” which revealed how teachers’ hands are often tied by a bureaucratic system.
“Amid the sea of stories of American educational failure, it’s good to remember that there are also many bright spots—namely, the wonderful teachers who dedicate themselves to their schools, their craft, and most of all, their students,” said Neeraja Deshpande, policy analyst at Independent Women. “We at Independent Women are proud to recognize these women and all the wonderful teachers across the country who will ensure the growth and progress of American students.”
“The nominations for the 2025 ‘Teacher of the Year’ search proved there are truly exceptional educators throughout the U.S.,” said Samantha Aschieris, senior contributor for Independent Women’s Features and producer of the “Champion Women” series. “I am excited to feature the five finalists in this month’s ‘Champion Women’ article, sharing each teacher’s journey and the lasting impact they’ve had on their students.”
Direct media inquiries and booking requests to [email protected].
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