Twelve alumni showcased this positive influence on Jan. 31 when they were recognized as nominees for the 2025 St. Johns County Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year awards.
Educators from across the county gathered for the celebratory event featuring speeches by last year’s award recipients, public officials, community members, and students. Local non-profit Investing in Kids (INK) coordinates this annual ceremony and the nomination process for award recipients. This is just one initiative through which INK represents and recognizes dedicated professionals who strive to educate and inspire students daily.
INK’s Teacher of the Year Program underscores the excellence of teaching in St. Johns County and inspires future generations of educators across the region.
Flagler Alumni 2024-2025 Rookie Teacher of the Year nominees
- Bridget Gagnon (‘22) | Alice B. Landrum Middle School
- Danielle English (‘18) | South Woods Elementary School
- Eleanor “Ellie” Kurtz (‘21) | St. Augustine High School
- Travis Lowndes (‘13) | Lakeside Academy (K-8)
- Mackenzie Reese (‘21) | Freedom Crossing Academy (K-8)
- James Welu (‘23) | R.B. Hunt Elementary School
Flagler Alumni 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year nominees
- Katherine Coriell (‘17) | John A. Crookshank Elementary
- Tim Heise (‘04) | Lakeside Academy (K-8)
- Kimberly Hinman (‘04) | Ketterlinus Elementary School
- Abigail “Abby” Holmes (‘19) | South Woods Elementary
- Lauren O’Shell (‘06) | Freedom Crossing Academy (K-8)
- Shalynn Sims (‘11) | Sebastian Middle School
