Finalists named for 2025 Teacher of the Year

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The number of names in the running for 2025 Fayette County Teacher of the Year has been narrowed to just three finalists from 25 of the county’s best educators.

The finalists for 2025 Fayette County Teacher of the Year are Jennifer Doyal of Rising Starr Middle, Andrea Lakly of McIntosh High, and Meghan Mills of Braelinn Elementary.

Each finalist will be observed in their classrooms and interviewed by a five-person judging panel consisting of current and retired educators and last year’s county winner, Rob Bell. The teacher with the highest combined judges’ score will be named the 2025 Fayette County Teacher of the Year.

The winner will be announced at the annual Fayette County Teacher of the Year celebration on Thursday, April 3, 2025.

Jennifer Doyal, Rising Starr Middle

Jennifer Doyal is a 7th grade social studies teacher. She has taught with Fayette County Public Schools since 2001 and has been at Rising Starr Middle since 2013.

Doyal’s educational priorities include encouraging students to see the world from multiple viewpoints, developing respect for different cultures, demonstrating how historical events and social structures impact their lives, and empowering them to become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens who can navigate today’s world.

Doyal considers teaching the most challenging and rewarding profession on earth.

“Teaching is a demanding job. It’s not just about passing on knowledge; it’s about shaping young minds, inspiring curiosity, and fostering a love for learning,” she says. “The opportunity to make a positive impact on young people’s lives is unrivaled. When you see a student’s eyes light up with understanding, or hear them express gratitude for your guidance, it makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

Andrea Lakly, McIntosh High

Andrea Lakly teaches college prep 10th grade English and AP Literature at McIntosh High. She has 21 years in the classroom with 17 at McIntosh.

“We hold a sacred responsibility to open doors for students,” says Lakly. “I feel like a successful teacher when I can cause learning in my students and allow that learning to be the success that opens the next door.”

Community is key, both in her classroom and in connecting with the world outside.

“Schools should not be castles of isolation. Our mission is to prepare students for the world,” she says. “By looking for authentic ways to bring students out into the community or to bring the community into the school, teachers can show students how their education is part of the life they are building, and increase student motivation to engage in that education.”

Meghan Mills, Braelinn Elementary

Meghan Mills is an Alternate Content Standards teacher focusing on 4th and 5th graders at Braelinn Elementary. She has been an ACCESS teacher with Fayette County Public Schools since 2018 and at Braelinn since 2021.

Mills believes every child is exceptional. She is dedicated to fostering independence and communication skills in her students, equipping them to thrive both in the classroom and in the community. With a focus on real world application and creating an inclusive learning environment for all students, she has created a space where every child can succeed.

“As a teacher of exceptional children, I have the opportunity to teach some of the most remarkable students,” says Mills. “They teach me about determination, resilience, and, most importantly, finding joy in progress, no matter how big or small.”

For Mills, exceptional teaching goes far beyond standards and curriculum; it prioritizes connection. When teachers lead with compassion and an unwavering belief in their students, those students will remember how you made them feel.

“Being exceptional is contagious. When we commit to being exceptional each day and with every new challenge, we inspire those around us to do the same. This mindset creates a ripple effect that reaches our colleagues, communities, and most importantly, our students.”