Denielia Turner, a reading specialist at Jones Valley Elementary School, will receive a $5,000 grant after being named the runner-up for the 2024 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year award.
Toyota, in partnership with the The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), received nominations from across the country recognizing educators who use a strong multi-generational approach to learning and focus on building effective family-school partnerships that support student achievement and school improvement.
Turner, who transitioned from her role as a second-grade teacher at Rolling Hills Elementary, was nominated for the award by her former principal, LaKeisha Agun. This year, Turner took on a new role as the literacy specialist at Jones Valley Elementary, where she has continued to inspire students and staff alike.
Jones Valley Principal Crystal Alexander praised Turner for her immediate impact, describing her as “nothing short of amazing” since she joined the school.
"It's been wonderful to see how deeply she cares for her students, both at Rolling Hills and here at Jones Valley," Alexander said.
Finalists were chosen based on a variety of criteria, including demonstrating passion and persistence for supporting family engagement and implementing innovative ideas to expand their programs.
Turner's devotion to literacy and education runs deep. With 25 years of classroom experience under her belt, she has built strong relationships with generations of families, having taught not only children but, in some cases, their parents and even grandparents.
“It’s about building rapport and trust,” Turner explained, emphasizing her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable learning and growing.
Toyota and NCFL officially announced the winner and runner-up in Louisville, Kentucky on Nov. 20, 2024 during the 2024 Families Learning Conference, NCFL’s premier convening of family learning educators, practitioners, researchers, and community-based organizations.