COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The Muscogee Educational Excellence Foundation (MEEF) has named Wynnton Arts Academy teacher Amanda Zarate the 2025 MCSD Teacher of the Year.
Zarate, a former Army tank track mechanic, was chosen from 54 Teacher of the Year Honorees representing each school in the Muscogee County School District.
Zarate's path to teaching has been anything but conventional—but that journey has shaped her teaching approach today. When Zarate transitioned into education, she leaned on the core values that had defined her military service: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage.
“Amanda’s connection with her students is truly something special,” said Josh Reynolds, Selection Committee Chair. “She brings a unique energy and empathy into her classroom that allows students to feel seen, heard, and inspired. Amanda meets each student where they are—with compassion, creativity, and confidence. It’s clear she’s built a space where students feel safe to express themselves and are empowered to grow. That’s what stood out to the committee.”
Check out her interview with WRBL's Crystal Whitman in the video player above.
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