Under the bright lights of recognition and applause, the 2024 Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony was a huge success, honoring educators whose dedication and innovation have lit the way to educational excellence.
Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mungo Padgett will proudly announce the 2024 recipients.
- Teacher of the Year: Jeremiah Smith, Coconino High School
- New Teacher of the Year: Emily Cartwright, Eva Marshall Magnet Elementary School
- Lifetime Achievement Award recipients: Jean Crookston, Fredonia Elementary School District and Dr. Rick McEnany, Flagstaff High School.
The ceremony, held Thursday, April 25, 2024 at the High Country Conference Center, brought together educators, administrators and community members to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of these outstanding educators.
Known for his dedicated teaching of U.S. History and his leadership in the Link Crew program at Coconino High School, Jeremiah Smith embodies a dedication that goes beyond the classroom. His dedication also extends to his mentoring of student-athletes and his role as Assistant Athletic Director, where he embodies a spirit of mentorship and community involvement.
Emily Cartwright's work promoting inclusive education at Eva Marshall Magnet Elementary School shines through. With a focus on students with intellectual disabilities, Emily fosters empathy and understanding, creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported.
As a teacher at Fredonia Elementary School for over 20 years, Jeanne Crookston is a beacon of inspiration whose innovative contributions have promoted educational excellence, enriched the lives of countless students, and shaped the future of education.
Dr. Rick McEnany's 37 years at Flagstaff High School have been dedicated to nurturing young minds, a testament to his unwavering passion for education. Through his music education, he has instilled a love of learning that goes beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students.
The Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards recognize the outstanding contributions of state-certified teachers in kindergarten through grade 12. This year, 36 teachers were nominated in the Teacher of the Year category and 12 new teachers were nominated in the New Teacher of the Year category. The event also recognizes Outstanding Ambassadors (runners-up) who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their jobs.
This event was made possible through sponsorship from businesses and community members. We are grateful to our Lead Recognition Sponsor, Findlay Toyota as Teacher of the Year Sponsor, APS as New Teacher Award Sponsor, and Coconino County Board of Supervisors as Lifetime Achievement Award Sponsor. We also appreciate the contributions of our Honor Society level sponsors and above, including NARBHA, Stone Canyon Media, Coconino Community College, NAU College of Education, and CAVIAT.
For more information or photos from the event, please contact the Program Coordinator at the Coconino County Superintendent's Office at 928-679-8070 or by email. [email protected]
To see a complete list of sponsors, Coconino County Teacher of the Year (https://coconino.az.gov/3154/Coconino-County-Teacher-of-the-Year).
