Photo courtesy Gold Star and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

Photo courtesy Gold Star and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

On Feb. 1, Gold Star and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) proudly announced this year’s top 10 finalists for the 2024 Gold Star Teacher award, which recognizes educators who have made a significant contribution and demonstrate a commitment to education.

Now in its fifth year, the Gold Star Teacher Award celebrates the efforts of local teachers in and often, outside of the classroom whose commitment to education and community are worthy of recognition. There are three tenets of a Gold Star Teacher: (1) They go above and beyond for their students, (2) Have courage and integrity in the work they do and (3) A clear passion that shows their love of their job and students. This year’s campaign saw 929 nominations come in from across the Tri-State from over 700 different public and private schools – from preschool to high school, a clear indication of just how valuable and appreciated our region’s educators are.

Continuing with past tradition, this year’s winner will receive special recognition from Gold Star and The Children’s Theatre at their school. This year’s Gold Star Teacher winner will also receive a $1,000 grant for their classroom, a $500 donation to their school and free cheese coney coupons for their entire school plus a gift basket filled with classroom supplies. In addition, the winning educator will also receive their choice of a special prize from the Children’s Theatre: Taking their class to a MainStage production of “Finding Nemo” at the Taft Theatre or bringing a TCT on Tour production to their school.

“Each year, the Gold Star Teacher Award program gets bigger and better, showcasing the outstanding educators across our region who are dedicated to their students and their profession,” said Gold Star President and CEO, Roger David. “It’s crucial to celebrate the impact educators make on children’s lives, which can be felt for weeks, months and even years. With the help of our friends at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, we’re extremely proud to recognize these deserving teachers for instilling confidence in their students and for creating a sense of belonging and community in the classroom.”

Meet this year’s 10 finalists for the Gold Star Teacher award:

  • Christen Bonfield

Campbell County Middle School

6th-8th Grade Spanish

  • Khari Burton

Rockdale Academy

5th Grade English & Social Studies

  • Kristen Carter

Riverview East Academy

High School Intro to Health Careers

  • Sarah Doller

Summit Academy Community School

Middle/High School Intervention Specialist

  • Julie Fessler

Holly Hill Elementary

Pre-K – 5th Grade Intervention Specialist

  • Audrey Kinney

Scott High School

High School Special Education

  • Katie Milbower

Mt. Healthy South Elementary

K – 5th Grade PE

  • Ana Race

Sharonville Elementary

Kindergarten

  • Jocelyn Sizemore

Academy of Multilingual Immersion Studies

Preschool

  • Michelle White

Beechwood Elementary School

5th Grade Social Studies

Voting opens Thursday, Feb. 1 and runs through Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. The winner will be announced on Friday, March 1. To cast your vote for this year’s winner and/or for more information about the finalists, visit goldstarchili.com/goldstarteacher today.