Age of Learning Inc., the leading education technology innovator, is proud to announce Shennet Josiah, a 1st-grade teacher from Sayreville School District in Sayreville, NJ, as the inaugural recipient of the Educator of the Year Award. Established in honor of Age of Learning’s founder, Doug Dohring, this award recognizes exceptional educators who embody Doug’s lifelong dedication to empowering students through innovative educational technology and access to quality learning.
The Age of Learning Educator of the Year Award celebrates educators who demonstrate innovative, student-centered approaches to teaching, often leveraging educational technology such as Age of Learning’s research-based solutions ABCmouse®, My Math Academy®, and My Reading Academy®. From a nationwide pool of nominations across 10 states, Shennet emerged as this year’s recipient, distinguished by her efforts to enhance student engagement and foster significant academic growth.
“We are honored to recognize Shennet as our inaugural Educator of the Year,” said Alex Galvagni, CEO of Age of Learning. “Shennet exemplifies the millions of dedicated teachers across the country who are transforming the lives of children. At Age of Learning, we pride ourselves on building strong partnerships with educators through our high-quality digital solutions that empower children to succeed in their educational journeys. Shennet’s exceptional work exemplifies the values our founder instilled in our company – a testament to the profound difference educators can make.”
An educator for more than 20 years, Shennet’s path to becoming an award-winning educator is rooted in her own childhood experiences. Born in the Caribbean Island of Antigua, she immigrated to the United States at age four. It was her third-grade teacher, Mrs. Thurston, who first recognized Shennet’s potential and inspired her to pursue a career in education.
“Shennet is an extraordinary teacher who has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that her students receive the best education possible,” said Sayreville School District Superintendent Dr. Richard Labbe. “Her ability to create a warm, welcoming classroom that captivates students and ignites their passion for learning is truly remarkable. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our district.”
“This recognition means everything to me,” said Shennet Josiah, Age of Learning’s Educator of the Year. “As a teacher, you hope to make a difference, but you do not always see the full impact of your work. This award shows me that I am not just touching the lives of my students and community, but I have also earned the respect of my colleagues, administrators, and peers. It reminds me of the ripple effect we can have as educators and motivates me to continue striving for excellence in the classroom.”
In addition to honoring Shennet as the 2024 Educator of the Year, Age of Learning would like to recognize the outstanding educators who were finalists for this award. The other finalists include:
- Selena Holguin, Teacher at Pease Elementary School in Ector County Independent School District
- Chantel Little, Teacher at Brownsville Area Elementary School in Brownsville Area School District
- Mary Rudd, Teacher at Hazel Owens Elementary in Tyler Independent School District
As part of her award, Shennet will receive an honorary ambassadorship with Age of Learning and will be provided with opportunities for professional development. She will also participate in the Age of Learning Leadership Forum where she will engage with other education leaders and will walk away with strategies to continue to build a strong foundation for academic success for learners.
About Age of Learning
Age of Learning® is the leading developer of engaging and effective Pre-K through 5th grade learning resources that help children build a strong foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning. The company’s research-based curriculum, developed by education experts, includes the award-winning ABCmouse.com® Early Learning Academy, as well as the adaptive, personalized school solutions, My Math Academy®, My Reading Academy®, and My Reading Academy Español. Having served over 50 million children worldwide, Age of Learning is a global leader in efforts to advance equity, access, and opportunity for all children. To learn more about Age of Learning, visit www.AgeofLearning.com.