Avondale Announces 2026 Teachers of the Year

Members of the Avondale community nominated these exceptional teachers in recognition of their meaningful impact on students and commitment to learning. Each honoree was surprised with a classroom visit from building leaders, colleagues, students, and family members to celebrate their achievement.

Congratulations to the following educators: 

• *High School Teacher of the Year: Emily Jarema Carroll

•  Middle School Teacher of the Year: Terese Schmidt

• *GATE Magnet School: Zachary Kaczanowski

• Auburn Elementary School: Kyle Soncrainte

• Deerfield Elementary School: Jennifer Johnson

• R. Grant Graham Elementary School: Kayla Whitten

• *Woodland Elementary School: Amy Jones

• *Early Childhood Teacher of the Year: Doris Clemons

*Nominees for Oakland County Outstanding Teacher of the Year

Our district-level Teachers of the Year—representing High School, Middle School, Elementary, and Early Childhood—will advance to represent Avondale in the Oakland County Outstanding Teacher of the Year Awards, a prestigious program recognizing exemplary educators since 1987. Nominations are reviewed by a committee of education professionals and community members using a comprehensive rubric, with county honorees announced in early spring and recognized through surprise visits and a formal ceremony in May. Avondale will also celebrate all Teachers of the Year at a special Board of Education meeting later this spring.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all Avondale teachers for their dedication to student growth and academic excellence. Congratulations to our 2025–2026 Teachers of the Year—your passion, leadership, and commitment continue to make a lasting difference in our schools and community!

Read the full features on each of our Teachers of the Year below.

ABOUT OUR TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

Avondale High School: Emily Jarema Carroll

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mrs. Emily Jarema as Avondale High School’s Teacher of the Year. With 14 years of experience in English education, a Master’s degree in Curriculum Development, and a decade of service at Avondale, Mrs. Jarema exemplifies excellence in teaching and learning. She teaches English in grades 9–12, including Honors English 9, where she supports a diverse group of students from varied academic and personal backgrounds. Known for her ability to build meaningful relationships, Mrs. Jarema creates classrooms rooted in belonging, trust, and high expectations. Her thoughtful instruction, commitment to equitable practices, and leadership in standards-based grading ensure that every student receives meaningful feedback and the support needed to succeed.

Mrs. Jarema’s impact extends well beyond the classroom. As a leader within the English department and PLC lead, she plays a vital role in curriculum development, mentoring colleagues, and advocating for student-centered practices. Families and students consistently describe her as a trusted adult—someone who sparks a love of learning while providing steady guidance and care. Parents credit her with inspiring lifelong readers, future educators, and confident thinkers, while students describe her as a constant, supportive presence throughout their high school years. In addition, Mrs. Jarema’s leadership of the Gender & Sexuality Alliance has created a safe, affirming space that fosters belonging and empowerment for students across the school community. Respected by peers, valued by families, and deeply trusted by students, Mrs. Jarema embodies the very best of Avondale’s mission and values. We are honored to celebrate her as Avondale High School’s Teacher of the Year.

Avondale Middle School: Terese Schmidt

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mrs. Terese Schmidt as our Middle School Teacher of the Year. A sixth-grade math teacher since 2020, Mrs. Schmidt brings more than a decade of educational experience to her classroom, supported by a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Central Michigan University and a Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Wayne State University. Known for her warm, welcoming presence, she creates a learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and excited to engage with math. Through creative strategies such as IXL incentives, quarterly raffles, and school-wide celebrations like Pi Day, Mrs. Schmidt motivates students to challenge themselves while building confidence and a genuine love of learning.

Mrs. Schmidt’s influence extends well beyond math instruction. A strong supporter of Capturing Kids’ Hearts initiatives, she consistently models kindness, respect, and responsibility in her interactions with students and colleagues. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership through her long-standing commitment to the school yearbook, dedicating countless hours to capturing student experiences, mentoring student leaders, and attending after-school events to ensure the yearbook reflects the heart of the school community. Families, students, and colleagues alike describe Mrs. Schmidt as a trusted adult who meets students where they are, encourages creativity, and helps them grow both academically and socially. Respected for her professionalism, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to students, Mrs. Schmidt exemplifies Avondale’s mission and values. We are honored to celebrate her as Avondale’s Middle School Teacher of the Year.

Avondale GATE Magnet School: Zachary Kaczanowski 

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mr. Zachary Kaczanowski as our GATE Teacher of the Year. A middle school social studies teacher at Avondale GATE Magnet School since 2022, Mr. Kaczanowski brings a global perspective and deep content expertise to his classroom, supported by a Master of Arts in Teaching from Oakland University and certifications in History and Social Studies (6–12) and Science (K–8). Through inquiry-based and project-based learning, he fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful student engagement. His students explore history and culture through innovative experiences such as student-created podcasts on world religions and cultural traditions, guest speakers from the community, and authentic civic projects that challenge students to see issues from multiple perspectives and recognize their power to create change.

Mr. Kaczanowski’s impact extends well beyond daily instruction. As the building’s Social Studies Lead, he supports vertical alignment, shares instructional resources, and collaborates closely with colleagues to strengthen curriculum and meet the diverse needs of learners. He is widely regarded as a trusted adult by students, who consistently describe his classroom as a safe, respectful space where their voices are valued and their ideas matter. His leadership is evident in his coordination of the eighth-grade Washington, D.C. trip, facilitation of the student newspaper, and active involvement with the PTO to advocate for student voice and equitable access to opportunities. Recently selected as Michigan’s representative for the nationally recognized Medal of Honor Legacy: The War on Terror program, Mr. Kaczanowski continues to model lifelong learning and civic responsibility. Respected by students, families, and colleagues alike, he exemplifies Avondale’s commitment to developing informed, thoughtful, and engaged citizens. We are honored to celebrate Mr. Kaczanowski as Avondale’s GATE Teacher of the Year.

Auburn Elementary School: Kyle Soncrainte

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mr. Kyle Soncrainte as Auburn Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. A fifth-grade teacher who instructs all subject areas, Mr. Soncrainte is known for his calm, steady presence and his natural ability to connect with students. He creates a classroom environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn—an atmosphere built on trust, humor, and genuine care. By greeting each student by name, holding high expectations, and encouraging creativity and imagination, Mr. Soncrainte helps students build confidence and take academic risks without fear of failure. His approach ensures that students not only grow academically, but also develop a strong sense of belonging and self-belief.

Mr. Soncrainte’s impact extends beyond his classroom and into the broader Auburn Elementary community. A collaborative and dependable colleague, he consistently supports staff initiatives and models professionalism in every interaction. He is especially thoughtful in meeting the needs of students who receive additional services, implementing accommodations with care and flexibility to ensure equitable access to learning. Students and families alike describe him as a trusted adult—someone who listens, understands, and makes learning joyful through creativity, laughter, and meaningful relationships. Whether managing the building’s support dog with care, fostering responsibility and community-mindedness among students, or simply taking the time to lift a child’s spirits, Mr. Soncrainte exemplifies the heart of Auburn Elementary. We are honored to celebrate his dedication, compassion, and positive impact as Auburn Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.

Deerfield Elementary School: Jennifer Johnson

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Ms. Jennifer Johnson as Deerfield Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. Serving students in TK–5 music, Ms. Johnson brings passion, creativity, and inclusivity to every learning experience. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Northern Michigan University and a Master’s degree in Music Education from Central Michigan University. Known for creating a calm, welcoming, and joyful classroom environment, Ms. Johnson ensures that every student feels respected, supported, and celebrated. Through engaging lessons that introduce diverse musical genres, hands-on instrument experiences, and meaningful performances, she fosters a love of music while building student confidence and creativity.

Ms. Johnson’s influence extends far beyond the music room. A tireless advocate for students and colleagues, she is consistently the first to volunteer, asking, “What can I do to help?” Her leadership is evident through her service as a PLC Lead, union representative, member of the school leadership team, Teacher Assistance Team, and numerous building committees. She plays a vital role in shaping Deerfield’s positive school culture—organizing performances, coordinating the Positivity Project, maintaining the school’s social media presence, decorating shared spaces, and supporting students with social-emotional needs. Families and colleagues alike describe Ms. Johnson as compassionate, empathetic, and deeply committed to seeing the whole child. Whether organizing schoolwide music programs, supporting students through challenging moments, or quietly carrying the load behind the scenes, Ms. Johnson exemplifies the very best of the teaching profession. We are honored to celebrate her dedication, leadership, and heart for students as Deerfield Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.

R. Grant Graham Elementary School: Kayla Whitten

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mrs. Kayla Whitten as R. Grant Graham Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Whitten began her career at R. Grant Graham as a first-grade teacher, a role she held from 2016 to 2024, and now serves the building as its Literacy Coach. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Ohio Northern University and brings both deep instructional knowledge and a strong commitment to student growth to every aspect of her work. In her current role, Mrs. Whitten designs and delivers engaging, differentiated literacy instruction for students who need additional support, building strong relationships that motivate learners and lead to meaningful progress in reading fluency and comprehension.

Mrs. Whitten’s leadership extends beyond direct student instruction and has a lasting impact on the entire school community. As Literacy Coach, she has played a key role in supporting staff through the implementation of the district’s new ELA curriculum, collaborating closely with teachers—particularly those new to the profession—to ensure high-quality instruction and confidence in curriculum delivery. She leads schoolwide data dialogues, supports the Teacher Assistance Team process, and assists with classroom management and student de-escalation when needed. In addition, Mrs. Whitten serves as Teacher in Charge, stepping into a building leadership role to support students, staff, and families when administrators are out of the building. Respected as a trusted leader, collaborative colleague, and tireless advocate for children, Mrs. Whitten exemplifies Avondale’s commitment to excellence, equity, and continuous improvement. We are honored to celebrate her dedication and impact as R. Grant Graham Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.

Woodland Elementary School: Amy Jones

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mrs. Amy Jones as Woodland Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. A fourth-grade teacher who instructs all subject areas, Mrs. Jones plays a vital role in supporting students during a pivotal stage of their academic journey. She is known for her ability to create a structured, supportive classroom environment where students feel safe to learn, take risks, and grow. By setting clear expectations and fostering independence, responsibility, and leadership, Mrs. Jones helps students develop the skills and confidence needed for success in upper elementary and beyond.

Mrs. Jones is especially recognized for her thoughtful, student-centered approach to instruction. She takes the time to understand how each child learns best and uses a variety of strategies to meet individual academic and social-emotional needs. Through differentiated instruction and intentional support, she helps students build confidence, stay engaged, and take ownership of their learning—even when faced with challenges. Families describe her as a steady, trusted presence who communicates openly and partners effectively to support student success. Respected by students, parents, and colleagues alike, Mrs. Jones exemplifies the dedication, professionalism, and care that define Woodland Elementary. We are honored to celebrate her positive impact on students and our school community as Woodland Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.

Avondale Early Learning Center: Doris Clemons

Avondale School District is proud to recognize Mrs. Doris Clemons as the Early Childhood Teacher of the Year from Avondale’s Early Learning Center. A lead teacher in the 4-Year-Old Great Start Readiness Program, Mrs. Clemons provides young learners with a strong, joyful foundation for lifelong learning. With a Bachelor of Science in Child Development, she brings deep expertise in early childhood development and a genuine passion for nurturing the whole child. Her classroom is intentionally designed to be warm, engaging, and developmentally appropriate, where learning comes alive through music, movement, storytelling, hands-on exploration, and play.

Mrs. Clemons is widely admired for her ability to meet each child where they are and help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She thoughtfully differentiates instruction to support individual learning styles and needs while fostering confidence, independence, and curiosity. Families consistently describe her as a trusted partner who communicates openly and creates a strong sense of safety and belonging. Colleagues and parents alike note that she models kindness, patience, and professionalism, creating a classroom community where children feel supported, celebrated, and deeply cared for. Whether preparing students for kindergarten, supporting families through a child’s first school experience, or collaborating with colleagues, Mrs. Clemons exemplifies excellence in early childhood education. Her dedication, compassion, and leadership ensure that her students receive not just an education but a truly meaningful and lasting start to their academic journey.