#United States #education leadership #Mississippi #Extrordinary Educators #i-Ready Tools

Celebrating Three Extraordinary Educators in Mississippi

In a remarkable recognition of educational excellence, Curriculum Associates has named three outstanding teachers from Mississippi as part of its 2026 class of Extraordinary Educators™. This honor is reserved for K-8 educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student development and employ creative methods in their classrooms. The three honorees are Earl Bell from Oxford Middle School, Amy Manning from Ocean Springs Upper Elementary, and D'Rae Modrall from Lake Elementary in the Pascagoula-Gautier School District.

Commitment to Student Success

The recognition is not just a title; it reflects the significant efforts these educators put into creating inclusive and engaging learning environments. With a careful application of i-Ready® tools, they have been able to effectively track student progress and tailor instruction accordingly. Over 170 educators from across the nation were considered, but only 26 were chosen for their exemplary utilization of educational data to enhance student learning and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Earl Bell expressed how meaningful the recognition is to him and his students' journeys. He stated, "This honor acknowledges the hard work my students and I have accomplished together. It proves that being intentional with data and relationships can truly enhance students' lives." His sentiments were echoed by Amy Manning, who underscored the importance of equitable, data-informed learning experiences that empower students. "This is a testament to not just my work, but the collaborative efforts of my students and colleagues as well," she remarked.

Similarly, D'Rae Modrall shared her humility upon receiving the award, emphasizing that teaching often comes with challenges, and such recognition reinforces the belief that intentional choices in education matter immensely. "It's an affirmation of my commitment to grow and advocate for my students," she remarked.

A Year of Growth and Leadership

The Extraordinary Educators program, now in its seventh year, offers selected teachers a yearlong national professional learning experience. These educators engage in leadership development opportunities, collaboration with fellow educators, and participation in the annual Extraordinary Educators Leadership Summit. Such initiatives help them broaden their impact on the education system.

Curriculum Associates CEO, Kelly Sia, remarked on the inspiring dedication of these educators: "We are proud to recognize their work and support them as they lead in their classrooms and communities." The program embodies the commitment to educational excellence and the empowerment of educators to make a significant difference in their students' lives.

In addition to the recognition, these educators will join a diverse cohort that encompasses a variety of educational roles, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced in today’s classrooms.

Conclusion

The acknowledgment of these three Mississippi teachers is a clarification of the essential role educators play in shaping the future. Their dedication to fostering academic growth and embracing innovative teaching methods sets a standard for educators nationwide. Recognition as an Extraordinary Educator is not just an individual accolade; it represents the collective efforts of students, families, and communities dedicated to creating better educational experiences. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the transformative power of exceptional teaching and the importance of supporting our educators in their vital roles.