Over 60 community and business leaders along with fellow educators and administrators participate in the review of the packets, interviews, and classroom visits. The selection criteria includes participating in continuing professional development activities, utilizing innovative materials and research-based programs to facilitate instruction, engaging parents and families, using student data to drive instruction and demonstrated leadership activities.
The nominees are narrowed to 15 semi-finalists then to 5 finalists who are carefully observed in both the interviews and classroom. All the school Teachers of the Year are honored at the EDDY Awards ceremony and receive a plaque and gifts recognizing their achievements. The event annually attracts over 1,200 individuals from the business and education community who come to support and celebrate our teachers. The five finalists are highlighted with video presentations and the Duval County Teacher of the Year is announced at the end of the evening.
During the year, the Duval County Teacher of the Year attends Rotary Clubs and other events to share his/her experiences and challenges of teaching. In addition, all Teachers of the Year are recognized through Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville Public Education Fund and Schultz Center’s websites where best practices are shared. Many Teachers of the Year go on to be a resource to the new teachers who are coming into the District through coaching or training presentations. As a result of this program, a professional learning community is created with the Teachers of the Year who share best teaching practices among themselves and others.
