Three educators have been selected as finalists for the 2025 Hartford Public Schools Teacher of the Year. After an intensive screening and interview process, a districtwide committee of Hartford Public Schools directors, officials from the Hartford Federation of Teachers, and previous award winners narrowed down the 40 nominees to three. The finalists are:
Ashantee Hyman, Science Teacher, Milner Middle School
Ashantee Hyman is an eighth-grade science teacher at Milner Middle School and a proud Hartford native. A product of Annie Fisher, Hartford Magnet, and a graduate of Weaver High School (Class of 2008), she returned to her roots to inspire and empower the next generation of thinkers, doers, and change-makers.
Caitlin Daly, Art Teacher, Hartford Public High School
Caitlin Daly is a passionate art teacher at Hartford Public High School. Since 2013, her dedication to expanding student opportunities has led her to teach English, Capstone, and Visual Arts within Hartford Public Schools. A committed lifelong learner, Caitlin holds a BA in Literature, advanced degrees in Visual Art and Curriculum and Instruction, and is currently studying Educational Leadership to further refine her skillset.
Keon Ruiter, 2nd-Grade Teacher, Sanchez School
Keon Ruiter is a second-grade teacher at María Sánchez Elementary School. This is his tenth year teaching in Hartford and his 18th year in the classroom. He earned both his Bachelor's degree in Journalism and his Master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. After beginning his teaching career in Massachusetts, Keon joined Hartford Public Schools, where he has continued to grow as an educator and leader.
The three finalists must now submit a series of written essay questions and a videotaped lesson for the final evaluation by the selection committee. You can read more about our 2025 Teacher of the Year finalists here, and see the complete list of 40 nominees here. All nominees must be tenured PreK-12 teachers in the Hartford Public Schools system who exhibit exemplary teaching skills, show commitment to the belief that all children can learn, and are active in community and humanitarian affairs.
The 2025 Teacher of the Year will be announced on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at an awards ceremony at the Hartford Downtown Marriott Hotel. The Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony is funded solely by sponsorships and ticket sales.
Hartford Public Schools is grateful to its invaluable event sponsors: Voya Financial Advisors, the Hartford Federation of Teachers, Autumn Transportation, Shipman & Goodwin, LLC, Pullman & Comley, the Robert Patricelli Family Foundation, Downes Construction Group, Xpose Photo Booths, and Parkville Market.
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