BUCYRUS — Teachers of Tomorrow, the nation’s top alternative teacher certification, is proud to announce Jaysia Morris as the Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow Teacher of the Year, recognizing her exceptional commitment to her students, classroom, and school community.
“I have always felt called to be an educator and a leader,” Morris said.
Morris serves as K-12 Special Education at High Road School of Bucyrus. As part of this recognition, she will receive $500 to support classroom needs, along with free professional development through SimpleK12.
“Teachers shape the future every day, often in ways that extend far beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Heath Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Teachers of Tomorrow and a former superintendent. “Our Teacher of the Year program is one way we celebrate educators whose dedication, skill, and commitment are making a lasting difference for students and communities.
“Congratulations to Jaysia Morris on this well-deserved recognition of your dedication and impact.”
In addition to earning the state title, Morris has been selected a finalist for the Teachers of Tomorrow National Teacher of the Year award.
The national honoree will be selected through a public voting process, open from April 20 to April 27 To vote, visit: https://www.teachersoftomorrow.org/teacher-of-the-year-2026.
The National Teacher of the Year will receive $5,000 for classroom needs and one year of free professional development.
About Jaysia Morris
“I feel great joy when parents sing praises about milestones and new accomplishments their children have achieved after I’ve had the opportunity to work with their child,” Morris said. “I know that as a teacher, we are teaching our students academically, and also emotionally, socially, and morally.
“I recognize that my attitude day-to-day and the energy I present when I interact with the children directly impact how they feel at school.
“I appreciate that many of the students I work with feel safe enough to view me as a trusted adult that can help them when they are overwhelmed, facing adversity, or even have positive things to share.”
About Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow
About Ohio Teachers of Tomorrow
Teachers of Tomorrow is an educator preparation program dedicated to addressing educator shortages by preparing and supporting high‑quality teachers for classrooms across the country.
Built on a foundation of rigorous training, personalized support, and proven outcomes, and approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, the program offers a flexible, alternative pathway into teaching for individuals ready to make an immediate impact in schools.
Teachers of Tomorrow has certified over 90,000 teachers nationwide since 2005, awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships to aspiring educators, and is proudly celebrating over 20 years of service.
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow is part of The Rise Fund portfolio — a global impact investment fund focused on driving positive social and environmental progress. Learn more at https://www.teachersoftomorrow.org/ohio.