Connecticut Educator Named '2016 National Teacher of the Year'

WATERBURY, CT - Jahana Hayes, a history teacher at Waterbury's John F. Kennedy High School, has been named the 2016 National Teacher of the Year by the Council of Chief State School Officers.

The council made the announcement Wednesday, stating that Hayes not only teaches her students academically, but also strives to help them become "conscientious and productive" members of their communities.

"I am honored to be the 2016 National Teacher of the Year," said Hayes in a statement. "In the course of the next year, I hope to stoke a national conversation about education that is inclusive of everyone. I want to engage people who have not traditionally been part of the conversation to join in this important effort to prepare well-rounded students for success in life."

She received a surprise congratulatory visit from Gov. Dannel Malloy Wednesday, who called her an "exceptional educator" for whom the state can feel proud.

“Teachers like Jahana Hayes are leading the way to a brighter future for America. What an exceptional educator – we are all proud,” said Malloy in a statement. “Extraordinary academic rigor, high expectations, and unwavering commitment to service outside the classroom are the characteristics that Jahana brings to Waterbury students each and every day. She is truly preparing the next generation of global citizens. I want to congratulate Jahana and thank her for making a difference in the lives of so many Connecticut children and families.”

As the 2016 National Teacher of the Year, Hayes will spend a year traveling throughout the country to represent educators and advocate on behalf of teachers, according to CCSSO. The National Teacher of the Year program, which is run by CCSSO and presented by Voya Financial, Inc., "identifies exceptional teachers in the country, recognizes their effective work in the classroom, engages them in a year of professional learning, amplifies their voices, and empowers them to participate in policy discussions at the state and national levels."

In addition to Malloy, Connecticut's United State Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal both congratulated Hayes for her honor, noting that she grew up in Waterbury and now inspires students from all backgrounds.

Hayes will be recognized by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House on May 3.

“Congratulations to Jahana on receiving this great honor! Jahana has an incredible personal story of strength and resilience, and she’s devoted her entire teaching career to mentoring Waterbury’s students and encouraging them to be open-minded members of our community,” said Murphy in a statement. “She is a role model not only to her students, but also to the tens of thousands of teachers who are inspired by her throughout Connecticut. I cannot think of a more deserving individual to receive this award.”

Added Blumenthal, “Jahana is an exemplary educator with an unwavering commitment to her students. Her passion for teaching is inspiring--- as she empowers, engages, and ensures that her students receive a fruitful, well-rounded education. I am proud to congratulate Jahana on this incredible honor, and thank her for her commitment to inspiring young minds in the Waterbury community."

Photo: Jahana Hayes teaching a class at John F. Kennedy High School in Waterbury. Photo credit: Council of Chief State School Officers