It’s a prestigious honor that shows one’s dedication to loving and teaching their students. It reflects a teacher who goes beyond the classroom for their students, all wrapped up in one award: Teacher of the Year. This award for the 2025 and 2026 school year has been presented to Mackenzie Reagan (F) and Stehpinie Eubanks (F). This year, Reagan was presented with the “New Teacher of the Year” Award, and Eubanks with the “Teacher of the Year” Award. Both Reagn and Eubanks reflect on the school year, learning more about teaching through their experiences and gaining deeper insights into the teaching profession. From Eubanks (some she’ll say) to Reagan’s approach on how she adapts to different students’ learning styles, they have become role model teachers for their students and co-workers.
“To adapt to all types of learners, I vary how students access content and how they demonstrate understanding. I incorporate a range of instructional strategies, such as visuals, discussion, movement, and written tasks, to ensure all students can engage with the material,” Reagan said.
Reagan focuses on her approach to educating using different styles of learning; she does this by creating an engaging environment for every student who steps into her classroom. Her dedication to collaborating with her students to foster a successful learning environment, further strengthens her relationships with students and faculty.
“It represents my students, my colleagues, and the support system around me that has helped me grow into the teacher I am today,” Reagan said.
Without the love of her students, friends, and family, we would not have the brilliant, passionate educator we see in the hallways every day. Reagan reflects on her past years as an educator. In her 3rd year of teaching, the experience she has gained has been a valuable tool during this school year.
“This is my third year teaching, and my favorite grade to teach is the ninth grade because I like to get to see the kids mature throughout the year,” Reagan said.
Reagan illustrates her passion for fostering growth and development within her ninth-grade students during a critical stage in their education. While Eubanks expresses her love for teaching, she offers valuable tips to new educators entering the school system.
“I would tell new teachers to not sweat the small stuff. There is still a lot for new teachers to learn during those first few years, so take it easy and be open to feedback and learning from the vets,” Eubanks said.
Eubanks has learned many valuable lessons from former teachers and her own teaching experiences. After guidance from her teachers and mentors, she decided to major in teaching. Eubanks’s former professors and mentors pushed her to develop the confidence to pursue teaching; without them, we would not have the amazing teacher we know today.
“When I was in college, I did not know what I wanted to major in, but I took a math class just because I figured I would need one. During that class, someone came in to promote pursuing teaching as a degree option as well. So I figured I would try that. I thought you know I like math, and I am pretty good with people, so maybe teaching could be the fit for me. I had some great professors and mentors in college who gave me great feedback and confidence to do this job and do it well. I really like working with high schoolers and getting to coach softball, too. I hope I am having a positive impact on the lives of young people,” Eubanks said.
Both of these educators demonstrate a true commitment to their passion for education. As they continue to inspire their students and peers, they also convey the impact that dedicated educators have on their students and school. Their loyalty to the field of education shows the community that teaching is not just a profession but a duty that shapes the future of young minds.
