LITTLE ROCK — At a special ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion today, Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Johnny Key recognized the four educators selected as 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year State Semi-Finalists. The semi-finalists were chosen among 13 regional finalists who also were honored today.
“Each of these four educators represent the best of the best in the teaching profession this past school year,” Key said. “I am excited to announce them as state semi-finalists, and one of them will ultimately represent Arkansas in the National Teacher of the Year competition. Any one of these four would serve as an excellent ambassador for Arkansas and for all educators around the state."
The state semi-finalists listed below each received a medallion and a $1,000 prize provided by the Walton Family Foundation. As a regional finalist, they also received a certificate and an additional $1,000 prize.
Amber Leaton
Social Studies, Grades 11 & 12
Bryant High School
Bryant Public Schools
Dawson Education Service Cooperative
Stephanie Long
Third Grade
Walter Turnbow Elementary School
Springdale Public Schools
Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative
Capri Salaam
Social Studies, Grades 7 & 8
North Little Rock Middle School 7th/8th Grade Campus
North Little Rock School District
Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative
Elouise Shorter
Math, Grades 9-12
Dollarway High School
Pine Bluff School District
Arkansas River Education Service Cooperative
The Arkansas Teacher of the Year program is part of the National Teacher of the Year program, which recognizes teachers for their teaching and leadership skills. The ATOY selection committee will conduct site visits for each of the four state semi-finalists, with the 2023 ATOY named this fall. The ATOY will then be eligible for the 2023 National Teacher of the Year competition.
