A good teacher can change a day…a great teacher can change a life, as the saying goes. To recognize truly great teachers whose dedication has made a lasting positive impact on their students, Rack Room Shoes is honoring five 2025 winners of its annual Teacher of the Year contest.
This year’s winners are:
- Gladis Hinojos, fourth-grade teacher, Riverside Elementary, El Paso, TX
- Beverly Keane, math teacher, West Millbrook Magnet Middle, Raleigh, NC
- Lauren Pedersen, fourth-grade teacher, Providence Spring Elementary, Charlotte, NC
- Danicia Randolph, science teacher, Ridge Road Middle, Charlotte, NC
- Adrienne Ruckser, fourth-grade teacher, Lead Mine Elementary, Raleigh, NC
Rack Room Shoes’ annual contest starts with a nationwide open call for nominations. During the nomination period, students, parents, and others can share a story of 500 words or less about their favorite teacher that illustrates how the teacher inspired a child to achieve greatness. This year, participants nominated more than 300 teachers. Winners were chosen through a public online vote on Rack Room Shoes’ Teacher of the Year Contest page.
“We are thrilled to honor these inspiring teachers for the meaningful differences they’ve made in the lives of their students,” states Brenda Christmon, senior director of brand communications at Rack Room Shoes. “Their passion and commitment to education inspires us all.”
Each winner receives a $10,000 technology grant for their school and a $500 Rack Room Shoes gift card. One winner has already announced plans to expand access to hands-on learning in media and communications by implementing a broadcast system in their school. Last year’s Teacher of the Year winners used their technology grants to bolster learning opportunities with 3D printers, laptops, and STEAM lab resources.
To find out more about Rack Room Shoes’ charitable work, go to Rack Room Shoes Gives.
