Students, Parents, Teachers & Administrators Called to Nominate Teachers at yonkersny.gov
(Yonkers, NY – January 9, 2025) Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers Kiwanis Club in collaboration with the Yonkers Board of Education will present the 2026 Teacher of the Year Awards to three deserving members of the Yonkers Public Schools’ faculty. Students, parents, teachers, and administrators can begin submitting nominations today through February 2 at www.yonkersny.gov/teachers.
Since 1956, the Teacher of the Year Award celebrates Yonkers Public Schools teachers who further excellence in education. A committee comprised of members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club and Trustees of the Board of Education selects the honorees.
“Teachers are the heartbeat of our community. Their impact stretches far beyond the classroom walls, shaping lives and futures in ways that last a lifetime,” said Mayor Spano. “Through the partnership of the City, the Yonkers Kiwanis Club, and the Yonkers Board of Education, we proudly honor the devotion and extraordinary commitment of these everyday heroes who inspire, guide, and uplift our students both in school and beyond.”
Three Yonkers Public Schools teachers, representing the elementary, middle, and high school levels will be selected. Students, parents, teachers, and administrators are encouraged to nominate a teacher at www.yonkersny.gov/teachers . Eligibility requirements for selection as Teacher of the Year include employment as a teacher in the Yonkers Public Schools for at least five years; demonstration of dedication to the teaching; initiation of new, meaningful programs for either students, teachers, or parents, or being innovative in the use of existing programs, and display significant community involvement.
“Each year, the Teacher of the Year recognition reminds us of the extraordinary dedication, creativity, and heart that our educators bring into classrooms. Their work is a powerful example of Yonkers Magic in action – where passion meets purpose and transforms the lives of our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Aníbal Soler, Jr. “Our teachers shape futures, strengthen families, and elevate our entire community. I encourage students, families, and colleagues to nominate the educators who have made a lasting impact – those whose commitment to excellence truly deserves to be celebrated.”
Board of Education President Dr. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio added, "For nearly seven decades, this honor has highlighted the very best of Yonkers Public Schools – teachers who inspire, innovate, and lead with purpose. The Kiwanis Club of Yonkers, together with our Board of Education, continues this proud tradition by inviting the community to recognize educators who go above and beyond. Your nominations help us shine a light on the individuals who make our schools exceptional.”
"The Yonkers Kiwanis Club is proud to have continued the Teacher of the Year Program for the past 69 years,” said Judy Bartunek, Yonkers Kiwanis President. “We are honored to recognize our outstanding public school teachers who display excellence, professionalism and dedication every day in the classroom.”
Online nominations must be submitted by February 2, 2026 at 5 PM.