Huge congratulations to Reese Finnie, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District's Beginning Teacher of the Year! We're so proud of the incredible impact you're already making in the classroom. Way to shine, Reese! ✨
Each month, we celebrate two outstanding educators who exemplify dedication, growth, and impact in our schools:
Beginning Teacher of the Month: Honoring a new educator who demonstrates exceptional promise, creativity, and commitment to student success.
Mentor of the Month: Celebrating a mentor who goes above and beyond to support, guide, and inspire beginning teachers.
These recognitions highlight the power of mentorship and the incredible contributions of our newest educators.
📝 Nominate a Colleague
Do you know a beginning teacher or mentor who deserves to be recognized? We invite you to submit a nomination!
How to Nominate:
Click the nomination button below.
Fill out the short form with your nominee’s name, school, and a brief description of why they deserve to be honored.
Submit your nomination each month.
Let’s celebrate the educators who make a difference every day!
Do you know an amazing beginning teacher, mentor, or school administrator? Does he or she go above and beyond, doing something that deserves recognition? Tell us about it here and your shoutout may be featured!
Click here to nominate an amazing teacher, mentor or school administrator.Â
Beginning Teacher Shoutouts
Hickory Grove Elementary
"I am incredibly proud of Ms. Coleman for exceeding growth on her EVAAS last year. Her outstanding results included several students earning Level 4 and 5 scores on their EOGs—a true testament to her dedication, instructional excellence, and commitment to student success. Ms. Coleman’s hard work, passion, and unwavering belief in her students clearly made a powerful impact, and her achievements deserve to be celebrated."
~LaToya Blackwell
Albemarle Road Elementary
"As the second‑grade team lead, she approaches her work with a deep belief that all students can be successful. Her classroom reflects that conviction—every child feels seen, supported, and capable. Miss Hopkins is consistently solution‑oriented, tackling challenges with a positive mindset and a commitment to doing what is best for students."
~Amanda Lawson
Butler High
"As a Beginning Teacher, Chef Jordan Walker has already set a gold standard for dedication and passion in his craft. His classroom is not just a place to just learn recipes, measurements and kitchen utensils; it’s a high-energy hub where the world of Food & Nutrition come to life.
Creative Excellence: He brings a unique, energetic, and enthusiastic perspective to every lesson, making education truly contagious and enjoyable for students.
Real-World Impact: By incorporating meaningful food labs and real-world living experiences, he ensures his students are not just doing busy work—they are building key essential life skills for a brighter future.
Community Champion: Through diligent collaboration with fellow educators and the local community, he ensures his students have the best possible instruments for a prosperous tomorrow.
Chef Walker, thank you for your loyalty in nourishing both the minds and the futures of your students. We are extremely lucky to have your creativity and heart in the classroom!"
~Marie R. Moore
Mentor Shoutouts
North Academy of World Languages
"Shan has been an incredible Mentor to me this year. Even before she was officially assigned to me, she went out of her way to support and guide other teachers. She is not only a brilliant educator in her own classroom but a selfless leader who truly cares about the success of Beginning Teachers. I am so lucky to learn from her!"
~ Hsu Ting
School Leader Shoutouts
Do you know an amazing beginning teacher, mentor, or school administrator? Does he or she go above and beyond, doing something that deserves recognition? Tell us about it here and your shoutout may be featured!
Click here to nominate an amazing teacher, mentor or school administrator.Â
Let's celebrate our Crown Academy 2025