Join us for the 2025 Teacher of the Year Awards
Cocktail Reception
May 14, 2025 • 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Lakewood Country Club 6430 Gaston Avenue
$40 for Chamber Members • $45 for Guests
Learn more about the 2025 Winners
Chad Burrus - Solar Preparatory for Girls
Chad Burrus is a dynamic educator and instructional leader who transforms learning through innovation, empathy, and purpose. From building a custom curriculum website to leading school-wide initiatives like Sisterhood Circle and the House System, Chad uplifts every student and staff member with creativity and care. His tireless dedication to removing barriers—academic, social, and emotional—ensures that all students feel empowered, supported, and inspired to succeed.
Shatavia Reeves - W. H. Gaston Middle School
A passionate educator and AVID coordinator, Shatavia Reeves brings 14 years of experience, leadership, and heart to every aspect of her work at W.H. Gaston Middle School. Known for her unwavering dedication to student success, she mentors teachers, leads campus initiatives, and builds lifelong relationships that inspire growth far beyond the classroom. Her deep commitment to equity, innovation, and community engagement makes her a true pillar of her school and district.
Daniel Forsythe - Bryan Adams High School Leadership Academy
Daniel Forsythe is a dedicated English educator whose innovative teaching and deep literary engagement foster both academic growth and personal reflection in his students. As team lead, he designs high-impact curriculum, mentors peers, and plays a key role in shaping district-wide assessments. With creativity, compassion, and a relentless drive to help every student thrive, Daniel is a standout in the classroom and a trusted leader in his school community.
Laura Gigliotti - Lakehill Preparatory School
Laura Gigliotti creates a joyful, inclusive classroom where young learners feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to grow. With a deep commitment to literacy, cultural celebration, and social-emotional development, she tailors each lesson to meet the needs of every student while fostering lasting relationships with families. Her warmth, creativity, and passion for teaching have made her a beloved presence in the lives of countless Lakehill students.
Nikki Morris - Dallas Academy
Known for her exceptional blend of structure, creativity, and compassion in the classroom, Nikki has been a dedicated educator at Dallas Academy since 2016. As a leader in professional development and a passionate advocate for neurodiverse learners, she empowers students, supports families, and inspires her colleagues every day. Her warmth, commitment to growth, and unwavering belief in her students make her a cherished member of the school community.
Cristi McCarty - Lakehill Preparatory School
Cristi McCarty brings passion, creativity, and heart to her work as a math teacher and department chair at Lakehill Preparatory School. Whether mentoring fellow educators, leading a dynamic Personal Finance course, or making every student feel represented and capable, Cristi creates a classroom where critical thinking, confidence, and community thrive. Her dedication to both academic excellence and inclusive teaching makes her a standout leader in education.
Teacher of the Year Awards
The Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Teacher of the Year Awards.
The purpose is to recognize educators K-12 who are providing outstanding education for their respective students. Recipients of this award must have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and novel programs that are serving to improve and promote education.
There will be awards for public and private elementary, middle and high schools in the East Dallas area of Dallas. A total of six awards will be presented. Each recipient will receive a $250 cash prize and each school represented will receive $250 as well.
The awards will be presented at a cocktail reception on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Lakewood Country Club located at 6430 Gaston Avenue.
Below are the criteria for the nominees:
NOMINEE ELIGIBILITY
Individuals employed as full-time classroom/laboratory/ teachers and coaches are eligible recipients for this award.
CRITERIA
- PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE: The nominee demonstrates instructional expertise, creativity, and innovation. The nominee uses a variety of techniques to effectively address students’ different learning styles and needs. The nominee is an instructional leader at the local, state, and/or national level.
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: The nominee frequently interacts with community members on substantive education issues. The nominee identifies and helps to bring community resources to students in both formal and informal settings.
- LEADERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: The nominee continually engages in experience to improve his or her practice and to gain new skills and knowledge. The nominee shares this new learning with colleagues in a variety of venues. The nominee’s participation in and commitment to professional development has a visible impact on his or her institution, student and community.
- ATTENTION TO DIVERSITY: The nominee works to provide a learning environment that meets the needs of all students, regardless of differences. The nominee recognizes and explicitly addresses the full array of values, cultures, and experiences represented in our diverse modern society, both through curriculum and instruction and in other interactions with students.
For further information: 214-328-4100
president@eastdallaschamber.com
Past winners are eligible again after 5 years.
Click below to read all about the past winners
Teacher of the Year 2024 Winners
Wenyun Wang, Emmett J. Conrad High School; Kathy Shannon, Zion Lutheran School; Laura Johnson, Lakehill Preparatory School; Monica Robinson, Robert T. Hill Middle School; Robert Cantu, Dallas Academy. Photo by Carol Hensley.