Quiet Power, Bold Impact: Zaida Quezada Champions Literacy at Harmony

Quiet but mighty, Ms. Zaida Quezada is a force for literacy and confidence in her middle school classroom. Named Middle School Teacher of the Year by her peers at Harmony School of Fine Arts & Technology, Ms. Quezada helps students find their voices—one book, one essay, one moment at a time. Her deep belief in […]
Hype Woman of Melillo: Tyler Oakes Makes Middle School Magic

Ms. Tyler Oakes is redefining what it means to teach middle school. A 5th-grade educator, student council advisor, and campus culture champion, she’s the heart of Dr. Dixie Melillo Middle School’s vibrant, student-centered approach. Known as the school’s “hype woman,” Ms. Oakes creates a classroom where every student feels seen, heard, and celebrated. Her creativity […]
Joy in Action: How Samara Solis Is Shaping Young Minds at Laurenzo ECC

At Laurenzo Early Childhood Education Center, learning begins with joy—and Ms. Samara Solis is joy personified. From the classroom to the community, she brings unwavering energy and passion to everything she does. When her school faced an unexpected staffing gap mid-year, Ms. Solis didn’t hesitate to step up—taking on both the OWL Lab and Art […]