Each year the Hope Rotary Club honors two outstanding educators as Teacher of the Year: one representing primary grades (K-6) and one representing secondary grades (7-12). “The role of a teacher is multifaceted, encompassing teaching, mentoring, and guidance to help students acquire knowledge, skills, and values. They impart knowledge, foster learning environments, and support students' overall development, both academically and personally. This year's selections are those that encompass all of those values and more,” Rotary President Bren Yocom said. 

Kylande Stewart, a teacher Clinton Primary School was described by Les Patterson. "Ms. Stewart has effective classroom management. She is a mentor to novice teachers and student teachers. She creates engaging lessons, effective communication (parents as well as students), excellent rapport with students and peers, creating a dynamic learning environment, fostering the love of learning. She works extremely well with her team. Ms. Stewart is a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated and compassionate educator. Her creativity in the classroom brings lessons to life, and her strong connections with students and parents create a supportive, inspiring environment for learning. She is always seen with a warm smile and a positive attitude, making her a beloved presence at school and in the community. Whether she's attending her students' extracurricular events or cheering on her own children around town, her commitment is unwavering. On top of it all, she balances a second job with grace and determination, further demonstrating her incredible work ethic. Kylande Stewart's passion, involvement, and heart truly make her deserving of this recognition."

Jocelyn Balagot was honored next and also described by Les Patterson: "Mrs. Balagot teaches 8th Grade Science and Mathematics on the HAPS campus. She is humble and soft-spoken, never one to boast about her accomplishments, yet she is truly a remarkable teacher. She has 35 years of teaching experience both in the United States and abroad, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her classroom. Her fun-loving and caring personality makes her a joy to work with. What truly sets Mrs. Balagot apart is her commitment to academic excellence. She sets high behavioral and academic expectations for her students and accepts nothing less than the rising to meet those standards in the classroom. Mrs. Balagot is one of the best mathematics instructors I have ever observed. Her deep content knowledge and ability to explain complex concepts in clear, relatable ways help students understand and enjoy learning. She is a meticulous planner in her lessons. She can often be found getting to work early and leaving late. Her classes are well-structured, engaging, and fun. Mrs. Balagot embodies so many wonderful qualities: passion, dedication, humility, and a a love for teaching. We are blessed to have her as part of the Hope Public Schools family,” Patterson said. 

Superintendent of Hope Public Schools, Jonathan Crossley spoke about the honorees: "Mrs. Stewart and Mrs. Balagot are teachers that I wish I had as advocates when I was a child. I am not surprised at all. I am immensely proud that these two carry the principles and the leadership they do. I know that these principles of this room is not where the magic happens, and it's not in the central office, and it's not in the principal office, it’s in those classrooms every single day. I'm so proud of that.”