At Elevate K-12, we work with an incredible community of educators who bring passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to their LIVE classrooms every single day. Today, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on two teachers who have truly exemplified the spirit of excellence this school year.
Please join us in congratulating our SY2024-25 Elevate Teachers of the Year, Tiffany Barksdale and Stephanie Gonzalez!
Both Tiffany (Elementary General Ed & Gifted) and Stephanie (Middle & High School Math) have modeled remarkable teaching by crafting and upholding the perfect LIVE learning environment, expertly planning for their classes, and nurturing a culture of collaboration, growth, professionalism, and strong student engagement and outcomes.
We sat down with these two incredible educators to learn more about their journeys, their inspirations, and the wisdom they have for their fellow teachers.
Mastering the Virtual Classroom
Elevate’s LIVE teaching model presents unique opportunities to connect with students in new and exciting ways. Tiffany and Stephanie have not only embraced these opportunities, but have used them to redefine what a supportive and engaging classroom looks like.
For Tiffany, the virtual model has deepened her commitment to flexible, student-centered learning. “It has encouraged me to think creatively about how to foster engagement, build relationships, and differentiate instruction in an online environment,” she explains. She leverages interactive tools like Nearpod and gamified platforms like Kahoot to enhance collaboration and critical thinking. For Tiffany, data is key. “I’ve also learned to leverage real-time data from tools such as polls and QZs to assess student understanding and adjust instruction to meet their needs.”
Stephanie shares that the experience has been transformative, allowing her to balance her professional and personal life while honing her craft. “Aside from the flexibility in scheduling and allowing me to stay home with my young son, Elevate K-12 has helped me become a better teacher,” she says. She credits tools like the Classroom Engagement Audits for helping her ensure every student is engaged and accountable, while new AI tools have brought more enthusiasm to her classroom and, crucially, “lessened my workload so I can focus more on my individual student’s needs.”
The Power of Partnership: Elevate Teachers + Classroom Coaches
A cornerstone of the Elevate K-12 model is the powerful partnership between our teachers and their “boots on the ground” partners, Classroom Coaches (CCs). Both of our honorees emphasized how vital this relationship is to their success.
“My relationships with Classroom Coaches have been instrumental in enhancing both my teaching practice and the overall classroom experience,” Tiffany shares. “The collaboration and shared commitment between teacher and CC are key to creating a positive, responsive virtual classroom environment.”
Stephanie describes the CC as a true partner in the educational journey: “One of the unique challenges of virtual teaching is not being physically present in the classroom with students. That’s why having a Classroom Coach who is actively engaged and supportive can make all the difference. Some of my best teaching experiences have come when the CC in the room feels like a true partner—just as invested in the students’ learning as I am.”
A Recognition of Heart and Hard Work
Receiving the Teacher of the Year award is a moment of profound personal and professional validation. It’s a recognition of the countless hours, boundless energy, and genuine heart that go into teaching.
For Tiffany, the award is a deeply personal affirmation: “Personally, it affirms the passion and heart I pour into my students every day to ensure they feel seen, heard, and supported, even through a screen. Professionally, it’s a reminder that meaningful, relationship-centered teaching can thrive in virtual spaces and have a lasting impact.”
Stephanie feels a similar sense of pride, seeing the award as a milestone in her professional journey. “It reminds me that the effort I pour into my students’ success does not go unnoticed,” she reflects. “Each year, I continue to grow and learn, always striving to be better than I was the year before—for my students, and because of them.”
Wisdom from Our Winners
In the spirit of collaboration, we asked Tiffany and Stephanie what advice they would give to other educators striving to make a significant impact in their virtual classrooms.
Tiffany emphasizes flexibility and connection. “Stay rooted in flexibility and prioritize building meaningful, impactful relationships, especially with your Classroom Coach,” she advises. “Your willingness to grow, adapt, and connect deeply with your students is what will truly set you apart.”
Stephanie’s advice is a powerful call to resilience and community. “My advice to other Elevate teachers striving to make a meaningful impact in their LIVE classrooms is simple: don’t give up. If something doesn’t work the first time, try again—adapt, adjust, and keep moving forward… Lean on the incredible support system we have at Elevate K-12… Tap into that collective experience and support—we’re stronger together.”
Tiffany Barksdale and Stephanie Gonzalez are more than just Teachers of the Year; they are inspirations to us all and a reminder that with creativity, partnership, and a whole lot of heart, we can create learning environments where every student thrives. To celebrate their outstanding achievements, Tiffany and Stephanie will each receive a $100 cash award, a framed certificate, and an Elevate swag pack.
About Tiffany Barksdale: Tiffany is a Virginia native, published author, small business owner, and graduate of Virginia Union University, where she earned her B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Elementary Education and endorsements in Pre-K through 6th grade, as well as gifted education. She later obtained an M.Ed. in Educational Management from Strayer University. This year marks her tenth year in education, with experience teaching both in-person and virtually as a General and Gifted Education teacher. Outside of teaching, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her husband, their two children, and their Shih Tzu, Prince. She also loves being a plant mom, experimenting with new recipes, working on DIY projects, and exploring her new-found love of baking.
About Stephanie Gonzalez: Stephanie is originally from Long Island, New York and is proud of her Latin heritage. As a first-generation college graduate, earning her Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics was a milestone not just for Stephanie, but for her family. She began her teaching career in New York City, where she spent 10 years as a bilingual math teacher. For the past three years, Stephanie has been part of the Elevate K-12 community, continuing her mission to support every student’s academic journey by encouraging a lifelong love of learning and growth. Geometry has always been her favorite subject to teach—it’s where she finds the most joy in helping students see the beauty in math. Outside of teaching, Stephanie enjoys dancing, teaching Zumba, crocheting, and going on adventures with her son.