Orange County Educator Named K-12 Teacher of the Year

Heritage Oak Private Education is honored to announce that Jacklyn Leimkuhler has been named K-12 Teacher of the Year by Nobel Learning Communities, Inc. (NLCI), which is now part of Spring Education Group. The award was formally presented to Leimkuhler at the Spring Education SchoolLeaders’ Conference, which was held in Las Vegas in October.

As K-12 Teacher of the Year, Leimkuhler was recognized for her creative and captivating lessons, and her dedication to implementing standards-based practices and leadership among fellow teachers. She incorporates technology, hands-on activities and her students’ unique interests into daily lesson plans. Students engage in active learning, such as classroom debates, dressing up as literary characters and incorporating social media tools. In addition, Leimkuhler’s passion and drive for advanced and innovative instruction have made her a role modelamong peer teachers, and she has forged lasting connections with her students.

“This award is beyond well-deserved, as I’ve seen first-hand how Mrs. Leimkuhler has positively influenced not only her students, but also fellow teachers and the greater Heritage Oak community. She knows her students’ strengths and challenges and uses them to build lessons tailored to their interests and needs – contributing to a spirit of success throughout our entire school,” said Phyllis M. Cygan, Executive Director. “Mrs. Leimkuhlerhas enhanced the quality of our programs thanks to her relatable and inspiring enthusiasm and her ability to raise the bar with truly creative, engaging and cutting-edge classroom innovations.”

The Teacher of the Year program recognizes teachers who stand out by demonstrating a strong commitment to inspire, motivate and educate students and staff. Along with the title K-12 Teacher of the Year and an all-expenses-paid trip to the national conference in Las Vegas, Leimkuhler received a cash award and a round-trip airline ticket to anywhere in the U.S.

“To receive this award means the risks, sacrifices and efforts I’ve made have been worth it, and I’m on the right path. On a professional level, it validates my teaching style and identity,” said Leimkuhler. “On a personal level, it just feels amazing to win and make my family proud. I’m excited to share my teaching philosophy and strategies with other educators.”

Leimkuhler has been with Heritage Oak Private Education for four years. She has a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton and received a master’s degree in education from Azusa Pacific University.

Heritage Oak Private Education is located at 16971 Imperial Highway, Yorba Linda, Calif. The school serves students in preschool through eighth grade and offers before and after care school care and summer camp for families living in the Orange County area.