Derby Public Schools selects 2024 District Teacher of the Year

Jessica Yanes

DERBY - The Derby Public Schools has selected Jessica Yanes as the 2024 District Teacher of the Year.

The Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program is one of the oldest and most prestigious recognition programs to focus public attention on excellence in teaching.

Jessica is part of the Derby High School family teaching English to students in 9th grade. 

Derby High School Principal Jennifer Olson said, “Jessie has made a tremendous impact at Derby High School. She is a strong member of both the Freshman Academy team and the English Department. She works tirelessly to help our ninth-graders transition successfully to high school by setting high expectations, using engaging instructional protocols, and communicating regularly with families. She always works to encourage and motivate her students to do their best. 

"This year, Jessie co-taught a new Journalism course and revived the Derby High School newspaper, The Raider Press. Her students have written a series of high-quality articles, and have interviewed a wide-range of people, with different perspectives to create interesting news stories for our school community. We are very happy that Jessie received this recognition and look forward to her continued contributions to the Derby community.”

Mrs. Yanes said, “I'm honored and humbled to be recognized as Derby's Teacher of the Year, especially because there are so many talented, dedicated teachers in this district who deserve to be celebrated. Every day, I see my colleagues supporting their students to be the best version of themselves, and every day, those colleagues inspire me to do the same.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Matthew J. Conway, Jr. said, “Mrs. Yanes is so deserving of this recognition. She exemplifies the best characteristics of a teacher; how to connect with kids, parents and all staff. She not only personalizes learning for her kids, but also with communication to parents. She encourages her students to improve, dream and to become lifelong learners through her own actions, participating in curriculum training, beginning a writing club and signing up to become a visiting team member of NEASC Decennial Accreditation site visit. She has captured the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to be in her class or work with her on a daily basis.”

Jim Gildea, Chairman of the Board of Education said, “On behalf of the Derby Board of Education, we would like to congratulate Jessica Yanes, for being selected as District Teacher of the Year. Ms. Yanes has proven to be an outstanding teacher who works easily with her peers, the administration and has a knack for connecting with her students. It is this relationship building with her students, motivating them to learn and getting the most out of them that stands out. I have been fortunate to have an up-close view of the relationship that she has with her students and without question, this is where she excels. She is a most deserving recipient and this is a well- earned award.”

We extend an enormous heartfelt thank you to our school-level Teachers of the Year Mrs. Boroski, Miss Svetz, Mrs. Rossi, and Miss DiCicco, who  reach kids and create a positive environment for everyone fortunate enough to be in their presence.

This is a press release from Derby Public Schools.

Congratulations to all of the honorees!