#United States #Georgia #Curriculum Associates #Extraordinary Educators #Georgia Teachers

Celebrating Exceptional Educators in Georgia

In an inspiring recognition of educational excellence, Curriculum Associates has announced the names of three remarkable Georgia educators who have been selected for the 2025 Class of Extraordinary Educators™. These dedicated teachers—Jon Olson from Greenville Middle School, Amanda Slauson from Unity Elementary School, and Dontavius Barkley from Hollis Hand Elementary School—have distinguished themselves through their innovative teaching methods and commitment to student achievement.

Outstanding Educators Making a Difference

Each year, Curriculum Associates honors educators across the nation who exemplify best practices in teaching. This year, Olson, Slauson, and Barkley were selected from hundreds of nominations, showcasing their exceptional use of the i-Ready platform and other curricular resources designed to promote student learning in grades K-8. Their efforts have not only elevated academic standards but have also fostered a culture of inclusivity and support within their classrooms.

Jon Olson, who teaches at Greenville Middle School in Meriwether County, emphasizes the importance of personalized instruction. He states, “Data from i-Ready has helped me identify student needs and provide personalized instruction. With these tools, I can celebrate progress, engage students, and most importantly, create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment that fuels student growth.” Olson’s commitment to leveraging data for developing tailored instructional strategies reflects the dedication necessary for driving success among diverse learners.

Amanda Slauson from Unity Elementary School shares her philosophy on creating a nurturing classroom environment. “Students feeling safe in my learning environment is a top priority for me,” she explains. “I want them to feel empowered, even when mistakes are made, and to know that success in the classroom comes from overcoming challenges.” Slauson’s approach highlights the essential role of emotional security in education, allowing her students to thrive while pursuing academic goals.

Dontavius Barkley, a teacher at Hollis Hand Elementary School, expresses gratitude for being recognized as an Extraordinary Educator. He states, “I believe fostering an inclusive and safe environment helps students be themselves and reach their fullest potential.” Barkley’s commitment to inclusivity echoes the sentiments of his peers, showcasing the commitment of Georgia’s educators to ensure that every student feels valued and supported.

A Network of Excellence

The 2025 Class of Extraordinary Educators includes a diverse group of professionals ranging from classroom teachers to specialists. Each member of this elite cohort will gain access to a valuable network of fellow educators committed to collaboration and continuous professional growth. In addition to networking opportunities, they will participate in professional learning events, including the annual Extraordinary Educators Leadership Summit, which aims to enhance teaching practices across the nation.

Kelly Sia, the CEO of Curriculum Associates, highlights the significance of such recognitions, saying, “The impact these teachers make creates ripple effects in their communities and across the country. We are delighted to celebrate these remarkable educators and the transformative work they do to ensure better student outcomes.”

Notably, the selection committee for this prestigious honor consisted of various employees from Curriculum Associates, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of each candidate's contributions. The advisory board, which included previous alumni of the program, provided additional insights into the vital qualities that characterize exceptional educators.

Conclusion

As these extraordinary educators continue to innovate and inspire in their respective classrooms, their stories serve as a reminder of the profound impact teachers have on the lives of students. This recognition not only honors their dedication but also encourages continued excellence in education across Georgia and beyond. The commitment to fostering environments where all students can succeed remains at the forefront of their mission, creating a brighter future for generations to come.