Teachers of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Magnolia School District Highlights Outstanding Educators Across Campuses

Magnolia School District is proud to recognize several outstanding educators who are making a meaningful impact on students across the district. Through their dedication, experience, and passion for teaching, these educators help create supportive learning environments that inspire students to grow academically and personally.

At Walk Preschool, Amanda Jetton brings 12 years of experience in education, including 10 years with Magnolia School District. A graduate of Southern Arkansas University, Jetton earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (P–4). Inspired by the teachers who positively influenced her own life as a Magnolia student, Jetton now strives to create those same meaningful experiences for her students. She especially enjoys celebrating milestones with her young learners and building lasting relationships with families and students.

At East Side Elementary, Alli Phillips serves as a 2nd-grade teacher. Phillips has six years of experience in education, all with Magnolia School District. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education (K–6) from Southern Arkansas University. Phillips was inspired by her high school algebra teacher, Julie Carter, whose patience and encouragement shaped her path into education. She loves building strong relationships with students and celebrating both big and small academic achievements in the classroom.

At Central Elementary School, Emma McWilliams, a 3rd-grade Math and Science teacher, has five years of experience in education, all at Central Elementary. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education (K–6 STEM) and her Lead Professional Educator designation from Southern Arkansas University. McWilliams is passionate about helping students build confidence and discover their potential. She values creating a classroom where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, collaborating, and enjoying the learning process.

At Magnolia Middle School, Ashley Hagaman, who has 28 years of experience in education, including 26 years with Magnolia School District, serves as a Special Education teacher at Magnolia Middle School. She attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and Southern Arkansas University, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Early Elementary Education. Coming from a long line of educators, Hagaman has dedicated her career to supporting students and celebrating their successes. She especially cherishes the moments when students experience something new for the first time and the lasting connections she maintains with former students throughout the community.

At Magnolia High School, Shanice Easter teaches Work-Based Learning, Child Care Guidance, and Child Development for students in grades 10–12. She has six years of experience in education, including four years with Magnolia School District. Easter earned her Bachelor of Science, Master’s in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, and Master of Arts in Teaching from Southern Arkansas University. Inspired by her mother’s example of helping others, Easter is dedicated to preparing students for future success while fostering curiosity, independence, and meaningful connections in the classroom.

Magnolia School District is grateful for the dedication and passion these educators bring to their schools every day. Their commitment to supporting students and building strong relationships helps create an environment where all students can thrive.