Stars of Education 

OKCPS Names Nine Teacher of the Year Finalists!

The Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools and OKCPS have selected the nine finalists for OKCPS Teacher of the Year! Join us in congratulating these nine fabulous educators!

“I often say that OKCPS has the best teachers in the state, and I appreciate every opportunity we have to celebrate them and recognize their hard work. It goes without saying that this year has been a unique experience, but our teachers have been up to the challenge. They have adapted and excelled and, as always, put their students first,” said OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Sean McDaniel. “I am honored to recognize these nine outstanding teachers and their achievements. Congratulations!”

The 2021 finalists are: 

1. Dana Chambers, Quail Creek Elementary School, Physical Education Teacher 

2. Rachel Farmer, Arthur Elementary School, 1st Grade Teacher

3. Sally Hoch, Belle Isle Enterprise Middle School, 7th & 8th Grade Math Exploration Teacher

4. McKenzie Hodge, Wheeler Middle School, 5th Grade Science Teacher

5. Alicia Hunt, Cleveland Elementary School, 4th Grade Teacher

6. Cynthia Johnson, Nichols Hills Enterprise Elementary School, Special Education Teacher

7. Chara Patterson, Douglass High School, English Language Arts Teacher

8. Don Stephens, Southeast High School, Career Technology Education Teacher

9. Kendra Whitman, John Marshall Enterprise High School, Social Studies Teacher

The selection process began last fall when each school site selected a Teacher of the Year candidate. Each site’s Teacher of the Year was eligible to submit a nomination packet to be considered for OKCPS Teacher of the Year. Using specific rating criteria, a committee of OKCPS educators and administrators anonymously evaluated all candidates and narrowed it down to these nine OKCPS Teacher of the Year finalists. 

Now that the nine finalists have been identified, the selection committee will review video filmed in their classroom setting and will also conduct personal interviews to determine the winner. The 2021 OKCPS Teacher of the Year will be recognized at the Stars of Education event on May 6th and will then serve as the district's candidate for Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year.

2020-2021 OKCPS Site Teachers of the Year!

The challenges of 2020 have only reinforced the critical role that schools and educators play in the lives of our children. Despite the many challenges we have faced together this year, OKCPS teachers continue to find innovative ways to stay connected with students and families, working to provide them with not only a world-class education but also much-needed individualized support.

I’ve always said that the relationship between students and teachers is where the magic happens, and today that’s still the case -- whether it’s on a screen or in-person. 

I’m so proud of #TeamOKCPS and truly am honored to recognize and congratulate our 2020-2021 OKCPS Site Teachers of the Year!

Dr. Sean McDaniel