Devin Taylor, a first-year teacher at Gravette Upper Elementary, has been named one of Missouri’s Outstanding Beginning Teachers for the 2024-2025 school year by the Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE).
Devin, who grew up in Gravette and attended Gravette Schools from kindergarten through high school, pursued her passion for education at Missouri Southern State University. She was nominated by Jeri Goswick at MSSU, who stated, “As an Elementary and Special Education major, Devin was always the type of teacher candidate whose love for her students came through in the way she discussed and wrote about her classroom experiences. She is the type of teacher who will welcome students of all ability levels to ensure they feel welcome, valued, and are given the support necessary to learn!”
Mrs. Taylor instructs her 5th graders in a creative scrapbooking project. Her classroom is decorated with cheerful and welcoming wall activities with a calming lighting arrangement.
MACTE recognizes exemplary first- and second-year teachers every two years for their outstanding contributions to Missouri’s PK-12 students. Although Devin now lives in Northwest Arkansas and teaches in her hometown, her academic roots in Missouri led to this special recognition Mrs. Taylor explained, “I am so humbled and honored to be recognized—teaching is my true calling, and I am so happy and excited to be able to work in my hometown of Gravette and give back to the community that I love. I look forward to sharing my passions with my students and hopefully making a difference in their lives.”
5th Graders listen to Mrs. Taylor explain a classroom activity.
Devin’s principal, Dr. Barrett, spoke highly of her impact: “Devin has brought incredible energy and passion to our school community in her first year of teaching. Her positive and profound outlook on education has made a lasting impact on her students, and her colleagues admire her dedication and innovative approach. Devin's ability to build meaningful relationships and foster a love for learning in her classroom has truly set her apart. We are thrilled to celebrate her well-deserved recognition as one of Missouri's Outstanding Beginning Teachers for 2024-25!”
Missouri Southern State University will share a webpage featuring Mrs. Taylor that is expected to go live in February. Mrs. Taylor plans to be present at the P-12 Advisory Meeting at Missouri Southern on March 11, 2025, where she will be recognized for this award.
Mrs. Taylor creates a fun and soothing atmosphere in her classroom to make children feel comfortable and welcome.
Congratulations to Devin Taylor on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your dedication to inspiring students and giving back to the Gravette community. Teachers like Mrs. Taylor make our Gravette Lion Pride strong!