Honoring Educators Who Shine.
Honoring educators who truly shine through an unmatched dedication to supporting all students, our Teacher of the Year and Staff of the Year awards are an annual highlight for the SESI community. Each year, we have the privilege of recognizing our most outstanding and innovative educators, who joyfully deliver high-quality, evidence-based instruction and shine a bright light on the possibility and untapped potential of every SESI student.
Overall Teacher and Staff of the Year Winners 2026
Divisional Teacher and Staff of the Year Winners
Antonela Qyra
Teacher, High Road School of Hartford: High School (East Division, Region 6)
“I believe that all students possess the potential to succeed when teaching is truly student-centered, rooted in high expectations, and guided by culturally responsive, evidence-based practices.”
Moria E. Rodriguez
Teacher, Sierra School of South Mountain (West Division, Region 2)
“My philosophy of education is rooted in the belief that every student is capable of growth when provided with the right support, structure, and opportunities. I believe in fostering a growth mindset, where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities and effort is valued as much as achievement.”
Raynard Gillispie
Behavior Support Specialist, Excel Academy of Roseland (West Division, Region 3)
“I believe that education is the key to unlocking individual potential. Having experienced its transformative power firsthand, I am passionate about inspiring others to embark on their own educational journeys.”
Jordan Brown
Teacher, High Road School of Anne Arundel County (South Division, Region 5)
“My personal philosophy of learning and education is centered on maintaining a childlike spirit in the classroom so that students feel welcomed, excited, and unafraid to participate. I believe that learning is most effective when students feel safe and connected, so I intentionally incorporate their interests such as movies, superheroes, and TV shows into lessons to make content relatable and engaging.”
Megan L. Mele
Occupational Therapist, High Road School of Hartford: Primary & Middle School (East Division, Region 6)
“As an occupational therapist, I view learning through the lens of functional participation and skill generalization.”
Jalen J. Spencer I
Team Lead, Achieve Academy of Escambia County (South Division, Region 4)
“My philosophy of education is built on structure, respect, and encouragement. I believe students grow when they are held to clear expectations while also feeling supported by the adults around them.”
Regional Teacher and Staff of the Year Winners
ZsaNean Lang
Teacher at Sierra School of Sacramento
Moriah Rodriguez
Malik Taliaferro
Jordan Brown
Antonela Qyra
Tonya M. Foltz
Bamnjo Bannavti
Devon Ford
Danielle Simpson
Raynard Gillispie
Jalen J. Spencer I
Ashley Booze
Megan L. Mele
Kathlyn Schock
Carl Spellman
Teacher of the Year Nominees