#United States #Curriculum Associates #Brooke Schmidt #Michelle Hampton #Cicero, Mt. Vernon

Celebrating Excellence in Education

Curriculum Associates has announced their 2025 class of Extraordinary Educators™, recognizing exceptional teachers who demonstrate remarkable commitment to student achievement and innovative teaching. Among the honorees are Brooke Schmidt from Drexel School in Cicero and Michelle Hampton of ROE 21 in Mt. Vernon, both from Illinois. These educators, selected from a competitive pool of nominations, exemplify transformative teaching practices that inspire students in Grades K–8.

A Look at the Honorees

Brooke Schmidt

Brooke Schmidt has cultivated a reputation for fostering positivity and an inclusive environment in her classroom. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring that every student feels valued and heard. Her approach centers around creating a sense of belonging, wherein different learning techniques are employed to meet diverse student needs. Schmidt believes that a supportive classroom atmosphere is crucial for both academic success and personal growth, stating, "Positivity in the classroom is absolutely essential.”

Michelle Hampton

Similarly, Michelle Hampton is a strong advocate for equity in education. With a focus on creating a safe and supportive learning space, Hampton employs tailored strategies to ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive. She articulates her philosophy by saying, "Fair isn't everyone getting the same thing. Fair is everyone getting what they need to be successful." This dedication not only enhances learning experiences but also promotes respect and inclusion among her students.

The Selection Process

Selecting the Extraordinary Educators involves a rigorous review process by an internal committee composed of Curriculum Associates employees from various roles. This year's class features 29 educators from across the country, showcasing a rich variety of backgrounds, including classroom teachers, specialists, and gifted support teachers.

Kelly Sia, the CEO of Curriculum Associates, highlighted the significant impact these educators have within their communities, stating, "The impact these teachers make creates ripple effects in their communities and across the country.” Their work not only focuses on immediate student outcomes but also shapes a brighter future for the next generation of learners.

Opportunities for Continued Growth

The educators selected for this honor will participate in ongoing professional development opportunities, including access to a network of peers for collaboration and exchange of ideas. They will also receive invitations to prestigious events like the annual Extraordinary Educators Leadership Summit, where they can present their work and share their insights with fellow educators.

About Curriculum Associates

Founded in 1969, Curriculum Associates aims to ensure grade-level success for every learner, supporting more than 14 million students and one million teachers in the U.S. through evidence-based educational programs. Their prominent offerings include i-Ready®, Magnetic®, and BRIGANCE®, which are instrumental in advancing student learning and achievement across diverse classrooms. For more information about their initiatives and programs, visit www.curriculumassociates.com.

Recognizing extraordinary educators like Schmidt and Hampton is vital in fostering effective teaching methodologies that positively impact students' lives. Their commitment to excellence and innovation serves as an inspiration not just for their students, but for the entire educational community.

By celebrating such achievements, we can continually elevate the importance of quality education and encourage a culture of success within our classrooms.