Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine took a moment during his State of the State address earlier this week to recognize the 2025 District Teachers of the Year, celebrating their dedication to shaping the future of students across the state.
“Put a good teacher in the classroom and kids will learn,” said Governor DeWine. “Few things make more of a difference in a young student’s life than the impact of a truly outstanding teacher. Countless teachers across Ohio pour their heart and soul into their work, and their students, every single day.”
Celebrating Ohio’s Top Educators
The teachers recognized represent various school districts throughout the state, each chosen for their exceptional commitment to education, innovation, and student success. The 2025 District Teachers of the Year include:
- Melinda Newell – Upper Sandusky Exempted Village School District (Wyandot County)
- Kimberly Haney – Amherst Exempted Village School District (Lorain County)
- Justin Stone – Trotwood-Madison City School District (Montgomery County)
- Alison Sears – Mason City School District (Warren County)
- Michelle Dohrmann – West Clermont Local School District (Clermont County)
- Treva Bolton – Logan-Hocking School District (Hocking County)
- Amanda Schaeffer – Hilliard City School District (Franklin County)
- Aaron Davis – Indian Valley Local School District (Tuscarawas County)
- Jennifer Bindus – Aurora City School District (Portage County)
- Daneé Pinckney – Ohio Teacher of the Year, Twinsburg City School District (Summit County)
- Jennifer Winkler – Green Local School District (Summit County)
Nominations Open for 2026 Ohio Teacher of the Year
Ohioans are encouraged to nominate outstanding educators for the 2026 Ohio Teacher of the Year program. Nominations are open until March 31, 2025.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the State Board of Education’s Teacher of the Year Nomination webpage.
