The Gold Star Teacher of the Year is…

Often cited as their favorite teacher by students past and present, Ms. Bravo’s unique approach is designed to engage learners, often incorporating themed lessons filled with gaming-style challenges, creative props and more. Her dedication to her students is evident in her attitude, and approach to education. Resulting in students who are high performers academically but also who become leaders outside of the classroom. Additionally, she is the Greater Cincinnati Excellence in Education Awards 2025 Outstanding Northern Kentucky Public School Educator of the Year winner, a University of Florida Literacy Institute Foundations trainer, dance teacher and mom of two.

Mrs. Colonel, a mother of three and beloved English teacher at Anderson High School for thirty-one years, shares her love of teaching and inspires students to always embody the school’s motto "be real, be kind, be better." As the Professional Learning Committee leader for the Junior English program, she helps students engage with literature and school activities, many of which she organizes. A leader on the Anderson Achievers Committee, she writes the entire annual Academic Pep Rally script and ensures the event is well-executed. Mrs. Colonel has supported countless students by designing ACT review lessons, assisting with college essays, and ensuring eligibility for athletics and activities through after-school help.

With more than 20+ years of service to Mt. Airy Elementary, it should be no surprise that Ms. Greene-Edwards is passionate about each student she encounters. She often utilizes her own money to ensure no child is without the supplies they need – be it academic or necessities like food – so they can thrive. From culturally enriching field trips to exposing students to the arts to recruiting her family to help facilitate a Thanksgiving Food Drive that benefits both the community and her school, she always goes above and beyond for her students. As lead teacher, she continues to give back as a mentor to her peers.

Mrs. Moorman works diligently to ensure her students excel in STEM classes, encouraging young minds to ask questions, take risks and participate in hands-on experiments and team-based problem-solving activities. She uses real-world challenges and technology to drive her lessons, including interactive simulations, 3D printing, coding, and virtual reality explorations to bring STEM to life meaningfully. In addition to spearheading STEM clubs after school, she coaches them for regional and national competitions. This is why her peers have called her “a visionary leader, innovative thinker, and compassionate mentor who consistently goes the extra mile to ensure her students succeed.”

Nominated by 16 of her former students, Mrs. Jennifer Norsworthy is quoted as having “so much empathy towards us and values our classroom as a safe place,” “She’s helped me with my confidence and finding my voice,” and “I love you, Mama N!” Those are some of the words Mrs. Norsworthy’s current and former students use to show their affection for her as a teacher. The leader of Milford High School’s Teaching Professions Academy, she is known for her demeanor in the classroom, treating each student with respect, creating memorable experiences and helping develop future leaders. That is reflected in taking time to help students prepare for potentially stressful moments, whenever possible, to help with work in other subjects.

A first-grade teacher at Cincinnati College Preparatory Academy, Ms. Powers is cited as a giver and inspiration for her dedication to young people during and after school. This is reflected in her planning the summer learning camp for advanced students and consistently championing their achievements. Her care is exemplified by ensuring one student’s family wouldn’t miss Christmas, buying and delivering presents out of her pocket. The parent who nominated her says, “In a world filled with hurt and evil, Hayley is selfless, and her light is beautiful.”

“Tricia is the teacher you dream of your child having,” one parent describes Mrs. Richardson, noting she’s never met a teacher who goes above and beyond for her students like she does. Her care for young people is evident in her attention to each student’s growth, and one story stands out. The parent shares that her son, who has attended speech therapy for years, gained confidence because Mrs. Richardson “went out of her way for him.” She adds, “She is the most thoughtful and genuine person I’ve ever met. She cares deeply about others, and it shows in everything she does.”

As a special education teacher, Ms. Terry guides new staff members, helping them navigate the complexities of teaching in a high-poverty school. Her wisdom, patience, and willingness to share her expertise create a ripple effect of excellence among the Fairfield Central faculty. This is evident in her creation of an inclusive space where multi-language learners could overcome language barriers. In addition to establishing an intramural soccer league, she led an event to provide new shoes to every fifth-grade student, extending the care she offers new staff members as a mentor teacher.

As an intervention specialist, Mrs. Torbeck has consistently demonstrated a student-first attitude, embodying the spirit of a dedicated educational professional at Indian Hill Elementary. This includes her innovation to create the “Green Growers GO Times,” a program that integrates hydroponics and aquaponics to give students a hands-on experience that teaches the nature cycle. The program is just one example of how her contributions enhance educational experiences and inspire, motivate and empower all those around her. She is a beacon of positivity and a pillar of support to her peers, making her an asset to the school’s team.

At Bellevue Middle and High School, Mr. Wheeler shows his love for education and his students each day he teaches. As band director, he leads all the school’s performance ensembles. As the coach of the academic team, he has raised their performance from nearly non-existent to one of the district’s top teams, with students now qualifying for state-level competitions. In addition to arranging meals for students in need, delivering birthday gifts for those who might otherwise go without, and going above and beyond for his students both inside and outside of the classroom, Mr. Wheeler goes out of his way to make a lasting impact on every student he encounters.