many teachers are memorable for so many reasons, but everyone always remembers their first all-day classroom teacher, especially when they are known for their kindness, ingenuity and patience. These words and more describe none other than Ms. Jennifer Cahill, the Columbia Heights Public Schools (CHPS) educator at Valley View Elementary who has been announced as Federation of Teachers Local #710’s Teacher of the Year for 2025! Nominated by her colleagues and voted on by union membership, The Heights Herald (HH) had the chance to speak to the awarded kindergarten teacher over email about receiving the distinction.
HH: How does receiving the accolade of “Teacher of the Year” feel?
Ms. Cahill: I was very excited to win “Teacher of the Year.” I teach with so many wonderful educators and to be selected is a great honor. I love being a teacher and shaping the future!
HH: Whose teaching inspires (or inspired) you?
JC: I wanted to be a teacher since I was in elementary school and I babysat for a family whose mom was a teacher. She shared about her work as a teacher and I loved the stories she would share about teaching. Currently, I am inspired by all of the teachers I teach with, as they inspire me to be a better teacher and person!
HH: What is your teaching style?
JC: My teaching style is very hands-on, and I use a variety of modalities to support all learners.
HH: How do you work to encourage your students?
JC: I work to encourage my students by pointing out things they are doing well and asking them what they want to work on to grow as a learner and person. I always listen to my students and show interest in their lives as people. Being named and noticed in the classroom is a top priority for me as an educator.
HH: Lastly, what would be one piece of advice you would give to those who aspire to be teachers in the future?
JC: One piece of advice to future teachers would be to learn all you can about the age group you work with, discover all [that you can] about the content, connect with colleagues to learn from each other and have fun knowing you are making a difference in the world!
Here at CHPS, every student—even if they don’t or won’t acknowledge it—highly value the knowledge their teachers share with them. This annual accolade grants everyone in the Heights community a chance to take note of, celebrate and appreciate the tireless hard work of educators like Cahill. Let’s express our gratitude for them not just once a year and not just one week out of the year. For any teacher of your choosing, consider ending the school year on a warm note by writing a thank you letter, drawing something nice or perhaps even offering to come back and volunteer in their classroom. Deliver that gratitude year-round, Hylanders! You know the teachers do the same for us.
