Across Northeast Ohio, classrooms are filled with passionate, dedicated educators who go above and beyond to shape young minds and inspire futures. We asked our readers to nominate a few exceptional teachers who have made a lasting impact—not just in their schools, but in the hearts of their students and families.
Jennifer Musgrave
Kindergarten Teacher, Roxboro Elementary School,Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District
“Ms. Musgrave is incredible. She is patient and kind. She is so dedicated to her students and it shows.” – Nominated by Gretchen Haremza
Tiffany Markim
Third Grade Teacher, Bissell Elementary, Twinsburg City Schools
“Ms. Markim is an incredible third grade teacher who goes above and beyond in every way. She doesn’t just teach; she genuinely cares about the well being and growth of her students. For my daughter, Ms. Markim has been more than just a teacher — she’s been a mentor, a role model and a source of unwavering support. Her kindness, patience and attentiveness have made a lasting impact, providing my daughter with the confidence and encouragement to thrive both academically and personally. Ms. Markim takes the time to understand each child’s unique needs, helping them grow not only as students but as individuals. Her dedication to creating a positive, inclusive classroom where every student feels safe and valued is truly remarkable. We are so grateful for the difference she has made in our daughter’s life!” – Nominated by Michelle Tagg
Connie Miceli
Second Grade Teacher, Redwood Elementary, Avon Lake City Schools
“Mrs. Miceli has changed my daughter’s perspective on school and learning. We’ve gone from tears every morning to hardly being able to wait to get on the school bus. She gets to know each of her students individually and creates a safe and serene classroom.” – Nominated by Nicole Billington
Kyle Ilcisko
Pre-K Teacher, Admiral King Elementary, Lorain City School District
“Kyle is a shining example of an outstanding teacher, demonstrating unwavering care and dedication to her students. Her influence on my son’s progress was profound, helping him to transition from being non-verbal to communicating in sentences. Teaching preschool is a challenging, yet rewarding profession that requires a remarkable individual with a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for nurturing the minds of future generations.” – Nominated by Megan
Amy Rogers
First Grade Teacher, Woodridge Elementary, Woodridge Local Schools
“Amy goes above and beyond for the children while also being firm and respected. She actively does things outside of the classroom to assist in the care and future of the kids.” – Nominated by Chassie Covey
Elizabeth Julian
First to Third Grade Teacher, Portage Collaborative Montessori School
“Beth deserves immense credit—not only for educating our children, but for truly honoring their childhoods and meeting them where they are. With a rich and thoughtful educational background, she brings deep expertise and care to her work. Her use of Montessori methods empowers the kids with tools to grow academically, while also nurturing their independence, critical thinking, and respectful, culturally-aware perspectives of the world.” – Nominated by Katie Kuceyeski
Allison Host
Kindergarten Teacher, Ledgeview Elementary School, Nordonia Hills City School District
“Mrs. Host is a truly exceptional kindergarten teacher who has inspired my children in ways that will last a lifetime. Both of my kids have been blessed to have her as their kindergarten teacher, and she has made each of them feel like a precious gem. With her extraordinary patience and gift for nurturing young minds, she brings out the very best in each child. As parents, we are welcomed into her classroom as valued partners, and she encourages us to be an integral part of our children’s kindergarten journey.” Nominated by Rebecca Stone