Positive Tomorrows Educator Receives National Teaching Award

Positive Tomorrows is proud to celebrate third-grade teacher Shavonya Coleman, who has been named a recipient of the prestigious Honored National Teaching Award, a recognition given to educators who have made a life-changing impact on a student. As part of the award, Mrs. Coleman was featured on the Inspiring Teachers podcast.

Mrs. Coleman was nominated by the mother of one of her students who says her child’s life has been profoundly impacted by Mrs. Coleman’s care and dedication.

Since being in Mrs. Coleman’s class, Serenity has grown tremendously. She went from struggling with addition and subtraction to proudly doing division problems. She’s excited about learning again — so much that she recently said, “I wish the weekend wasn’t so long.” That’s something I never thought I’d hear from her. Mrs. Coleman has that rare gift that you just can’t teach — the perfect balance of patience, firmness, and genuine love for her students. She reminds me of those “old-school” teachers who cared deeply about every child, no matter where they came from or what challenges they faced. At Positive Tomorrows, where many of the students are unhoused and may be behind academically, her compassion and dedication mean even more. She builds relationships with each child. She believes in them. And she gives parents like me hope — hope that our children can thrive, even after hard times. Teachers like Mrs. Coleman often go unnoticed, but I want her to know that her efforts have not gone unseen. She has changed my daughter’s life, and for that, I am forever grateful. 

The nomination highlighted the consistency, encouragement, and stability Coleman provides for her students…qualities that are especially meaningful for children navigating challenges outside the classroom. Mrs. Coleman was selected for creating “an environment of consistency and stability for students whose lives feel unpredictable outside of school.”

Anyone who has spent time in Mrs. Coleman’s classroom knows that description rings true. She creates a space where students feel supported, challenged and valued each day. Her commitment extends far beyond academics; she works every day to help students build confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Honored is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing exceptional educators and elevating the teaching profession. Each month, the organization selects one teacher from across the country whose impact on a student’s life demonstrates the profound difference great teachers make every day.

We are thrilled to one of our very own receive this well-deserved recognition. Congratulations, Mrs. Coleman, and thank you for the care, dedication and encouragement you bring to our students each day. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom.