At Biscayne Elementary, fifth-grade teacher Rachquel Baker has built a classroom rooted in connection, resilience and belief.
Ten years into her career, Baker has experienced the challenges that come with teaching, including moments when she questioned how much longer she could continue. That changed when she found her place at Biscayne.
“They instantly became family,” Baker said. “From administrators to the children to the families, they make you feel like you’re at home.”
Inside her classroom, students are active participants in their learning, encouraged to think independently and take ownership of their growth. Baker’s approach focuses not only on academics, but on helping students see their own potential.
“It’s not even a job, it’s a passion,” Baker said. “Every day is not glitter and gold, but you get through it.”
Her motivation is rooted in impact, especially when students begin to believe in themselves.
“Why I show up every day is to make those nonbelievers believers,” Baker said. “To let them see that there is greatness happening amongst these walls.”
For Baker, the most rewarding moments often come later, when former students return and reflect on what they learned in her classroom.
“To actually be able to see the fruits of my labor, that’s amazing and very humbling,” she said.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring. Walk-in hiring is available at the district office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
To learn more or apply, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.
Ten years into her career, Baker has experienced the challenges that come with teaching, including moments when she questioned how much longer she could continue. That changed when she found her place at Biscayne.
“They instantly became family,” Baker said. “From administrators to the children to the families, they make you feel like you’re at home.”
Inside her classroom, students are active participants in their learning, encouraged to think independently and take ownership of their growth. Baker’s approach focuses not only on academics, but on helping students see their own potential.
“It’s not even a job, it’s a passion,” Baker said. “Every day is not glitter and gold, but you get through it.”
Her motivation is rooted in impact, especially when students begin to believe in themselves.
“Why I show up every day is to make those nonbelievers believers,” Baker said. “To let them see that there is greatness happening amongst these walls.”
For Baker, the most rewarding moments often come later, when former students return and reflect on what they learned in her classroom.
“To actually be able to see the fruits of my labor, that’s amazing and very humbling,” she said.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring. Walk-in hiring is available at the district office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
To learn more or apply, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.
Duval County Public Schools thanks attendees, highlights ongoing opportunities following 2026 Spring Hiring Fair
Duval County Public Schools is thanking the many aspiring educators and professionals who attended the 2026 Spring Hiring Fair at the Prime F. Osborn Convention Center.
The event brought together future teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff eager to make a difference in classrooms across the district. Attendees connected with school leaders, explored career pathways, and took meaningful steps toward joining Team Duval.
District leaders say the strong turnout reflects a shared commitment to student success and a growing interest in careers that impact the next generation.
While the hiring fair has concluded, opportunities remain available throughout Duval County Public Schools. Individuals interested in becoming part of Team Duval are encouraged to explore open positions and apply online.
To learn more about current opportunities, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
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Duval County Public Schools is thanking the many aspiring educators and professionals who attended the 2026 Spring Hiring Fair at the Prime F. Osborn Convention Center.
The event brought together future teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff eager to make a difference in classrooms across the district. Attendees connected with school leaders, explored career pathways, and took meaningful steps toward joining Team Duval.
District leaders say the strong turnout reflects a shared commitment to student success and a growing interest in careers that impact the next generation.
While the hiring fair has concluded, opportunities remain available throughout Duval County Public Schools. Individuals interested in becoming part of Team Duval are encouraged to explore open positions and apply online.
To learn more about current opportunities, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
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Lyndzee McClure, a Neptune Beach teacher who has served Duval County Public Schools for 20 years, is currently in the quarterfinals of America’s Favorite Teacher.
The national competition highlights educators making a meaningful impact in their classrooms and communities, with public voting determining who advances through each round.
McClure is a graduate of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and now gives back to the same community that helped shape her, continuing to support students across Duval County.
Quarterfinal voting begins Monday.
Vote here: https://americasfavteacher.org/2026/lyndzee-mcclure
To learn more about career opportunities with Duval County Public Schools, visit: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
The national competition highlights educators making a meaningful impact in their classrooms and communities, with public voting determining who advances through each round.
McClure is a graduate of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and now gives back to the same community that helped shape her, continuing to support students across Duval County.
Quarterfinal voting begins Monday.
Vote here: https://americasfavteacher.org/2026/lyndzee-mcclure
To learn more about career opportunities with Duval County Public Schools, visit: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Amanda Duckworth, a first-year teacher at Jean Ribault High School, has been named Duval County Public Schools’ Rookie Teacher of the Month for April.
Duckworth has demonstrated professionalism, a positive attitude and a strong commitment to growth throughout the district’s induction process. She actively engages in coaching cycles, applies feedback to her instruction and maintains clear classroom expectations that support student success.
Following CHAMPs training, Duckworth showed initiative by connecting with another new teacher in her subject area and coordinating an opportunity to observe model classroom teachers at Jean Ribault High School. The experience expanded beyond a required activity and became a collaborative learning opportunity.
“Amanda Duckworth consistently demonstrates professionalism, a positive attitude, and a strong commitment to growth,” said Gregory Bostic. “Her initiative in seeking out learning opportunities and collaborating with peers reflects both her leadership and dedication to student success.”
Duckworth’s leadership, initiative and commitment to continuous improvement contributed to her selection for the recognition.
Duval County Public Schools continues to recruit educators committed to student success. More information about career opportunities is available at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
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Duckworth has demonstrated professionalism, a positive attitude and a strong commitment to growth throughout the district’s induction process. She actively engages in coaching cycles, applies feedback to her instruction and maintains clear classroom expectations that support student success.
Following CHAMPs training, Duckworth showed initiative by connecting with another new teacher in her subject area and coordinating an opportunity to observe model classroom teachers at Jean Ribault High School. The experience expanded beyond a required activity and became a collaborative learning opportunity.
“Amanda Duckworth consistently demonstrates professionalism, a positive attitude, and a strong commitment to growth,” said Gregory Bostic. “Her initiative in seeking out learning opportunities and collaborating with peers reflects both her leadership and dedication to student success.”
Duckworth’s leadership, initiative and commitment to continuous improvement contributed to her selection for the recognition.
Duval County Public Schools continues to recruit educators committed to student success. More information about career opportunities is available at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
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At Abess Park Elementary, engagement can show up in the form of movement, laughter, and students who are fully part of the lesson.
In Joyce Moussa’s kindergarten classroom, learning is built around connection, creating an environment where students are encouraged to participate, explore, and enjoy the process.
Her impact goes beyond the lesson. By building trust and showing genuine care, she creates a space where students feel confident, supported, and ready to grow.
That sense of connection helps shape not just how students learn, but how they see themselves in the classroom.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are making a difference by creating classrooms where students feel seen, supported, and inspired every day.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
In Joyce Moussa’s kindergarten classroom, learning is built around connection, creating an environment where students are encouraged to participate, explore, and enjoy the process.
Her impact goes beyond the lesson. By building trust and showing genuine care, she creates a space where students feel confident, supported, and ready to grow.
That sense of connection helps shape not just how students learn, but how they see themselves in the classroom.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are making a difference by creating classrooms where students feel seen, supported, and inspired every day.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Oceanway Middle School, support can show up in the form of someone simply asking how they can help.
Through our substitute partner ESS, in conjunction with Mitch22, high performing substitutes are being recognized for their outstanding work in the classroom.
His impact goes beyond the schedule. He builds strong relationships with students, creating an environment where they feel supported and motivated to succeed.
That willingness to serve others helps strengthen the entire school community.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are making a difference by showing up for students and for each other.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At San Mateo Elementary, flexibility is turning into opportunity for students across multiple grade levels.
Through our substitute partner ESS, in conjunction with Mitch22, high performing substitutes are being recognized for their outstanding work in the classroom.
Her ability to adapt creates a classroom where students feel supported, respected and motivated to do their best.
In every role she takes on, she is helping students build confidence while maintaining a strong focus on learning.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are meeting students where they are and helping them move forward.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Parkwood Heights Elementary, one classroom is showing what happens when someone steps in and makes it their own.
Through our substitute partner ESS, in conjunction with Mitch22, high performing substitutes are being recognized for their outstanding work in the classroom.
From leading a holiday program to helping students prepare for Black History Month presentations, her impact reaches beyond academics and into confidence and connection.
She has also worked alongside math coaches to strengthen student performance, helping drive meaningful gains in the classroom.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are creating environments where students are pushed to succeed and supported along the way.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At SP Livingston Elementary, a small classroom is becoming a starting point for something much bigger.
Through Girls Who Code, Head Start teacher Kadi Welty is introducing her students to the fundamentals of coding while building confidence that reaches beyond the screen. What begins with vocabulary and step-by-step thinking quickly turns into problem-solving, creativity and belief.
“They see how girls can do just equal to anybody else out there when it comes to technology in STEM,” Welty said.
Her approach is rooted in curiosity and growth, bringing new ideas into the classroom and giving students opportunities to see themselves in fields they may not have considered before.
“I love to learn, and then I love to take what I learn and bring it in so that my kids can learn,” she said.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are creating meaningful experiences that help students discover their potential early.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Through Girls Who Code, Head Start teacher Kadi Welty is introducing her students to the fundamentals of coding while building confidence that reaches beyond the screen. What begins with vocabulary and step-by-step thinking quickly turns into problem-solving, creativity and belief.
“They see how girls can do just equal to anybody else out there when it comes to technology in STEM,” Welty said.
Her approach is rooted in curiosity and growth, bringing new ideas into the classroom and giving students opportunities to see themselves in fields they may not have considered before.
“I love to learn, and then I love to take what I learn and bring it in so that my kids can learn,” she said.
At Duval County Public Schools, educators are creating meaningful experiences that help students discover their potential early.
To join Team Duval and make an impact in the classroom, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Terry Parker High School, history doesn’t just live in textbooks. It shows up in the moments when students start to see themselves in the story.
In Rebecca LaMance’s classroom, lessons go beyond dates and timelines. Students are encouraged to make connections between the past and their own lives, discovering how history shapes who they are.
It’s not about memorizing facts. It’s about understanding where you come from and where you’re going.
“When they realize their family’s place in our history, that’s what makes it come to life for them.”
With each lesson, those connections grow stronger. Students become more engaged. More curious. More confident in their place in the world.
And over time, history becomes something they carry with them long after they leave the classroom.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
In Rebecca LaMance’s classroom, lessons go beyond dates and timelines. Students are encouraged to make connections between the past and their own lives, discovering how history shapes who they are.
It’s not about memorizing facts. It’s about understanding where you come from and where you’re going.
“When they realize their family’s place in our history, that’s what makes it come to life for them.”
With each lesson, those connections grow stronger. Students become more engaged. More curious. More confident in their place in the world.
And over time, history becomes something they carry with them long after they leave the classroom.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Anchor Academy Elementary in Jacksonville, Florida, it doesn’t take long to notice… this classroom has a rhythm.
There’s music. Movement. Laughter.
And right in the middle of it all… learning is happening everywhere.
For Brittany Barbatelli, that’s the goal.
Because for her students, this isn’t just another school year. It’s their very first experience with what school even is.
And that matters.
“They are like little sponges… you can physically see the light bulbs going off inside their heads.”
So in her classroom, learning isn’t about sitting still.
It’s about jumping in, being part of it, and discovering something new every single day.
Nearly 20 years into teaching, she still calls it her dream job.
Because she’s not just teaching lessons.
She’s building confidence.
Creating belonging.
And setting the foundation for everything that comes next.
And when that foundation is strong… you see it years later.
In the way students grow.
In who they become.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who make that kind of impact from day one.
Join Team Duval: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
There’s music. Movement. Laughter.
And right in the middle of it all… learning is happening everywhere.
For Brittany Barbatelli, that’s the goal.
Because for her students, this isn’t just another school year. It’s their very first experience with what school even is.
And that matters.
“They are like little sponges… you can physically see the light bulbs going off inside their heads.”
So in her classroom, learning isn’t about sitting still.
It’s about jumping in, being part of it, and discovering something new every single day.
Nearly 20 years into teaching, she still calls it her dream job.
Because she’s not just teaching lessons.
She’s building confidence.
Creating belonging.
And setting the foundation for everything that comes next.
And when that foundation is strong… you see it years later.
In the way students grow.
In who they become.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who make that kind of impact from day one.
Join Team Duval: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Bridge to Success Academy Middle School in Jacksonville, Florida, you can feel it right away.
Students aren’t sitting still, staring at a page. They’re moving, building, talking, and engaged. The solar system isn’t something they just read about. It’s something they step into.
That’s the environment Randolph Myrie is creating.
From Jamaica to Duval County Public Schools, he’s bringing a global perspective into a space where students feel comfortable being themselves, asking questions, and staying engaged.
Brought here through TPG Cultural Exchange, his classroom runs on connection just as much as it does content.
And when students feel that, everything changes.
They show up differently.
They work harder.
They believe they can succeed.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who are making this kind of impact every day.
Join Team Duval: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Students aren’t sitting still, staring at a page. They’re moving, building, talking, and engaged. The solar system isn’t something they just read about. It’s something they step into.
That’s the environment Randolph Myrie is creating.
From Jamaica to Duval County Public Schools, he’s bringing a global perspective into a space where students feel comfortable being themselves, asking questions, and staying engaged.
Brought here through TPG Cultural Exchange, his classroom runs on connection just as much as it does content.
And when students feel that, everything changes.
They show up differently.
They work harder.
They believe they can succeed.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who are making this kind of impact every day.
Join Team Duval: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Stanton College Preparatory School, growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens in small moments that start to add up.
In Kelly Klinger’s classroom, students are given the time and support to build their confidence as readers. It’s not about rushing to the next step. It’s about making sure they’re ready for it.
After more than 20 years with Duval County Public Schools, she’s focused on helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in more advanced classes and beyond.
“We’re always working toward that goal, making sure they’re ready for college success.”
Over time, those small wins turn into something bigger. Students begin to believe in themselves. They see what’s possible.
And eventually, it leads to that moment, walking across the stage with a diploma and a future ahead of them.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
In Kelly Klinger’s classroom, students are given the time and support to build their confidence as readers. It’s not about rushing to the next step. It’s about making sure they’re ready for it.
After more than 20 years with Duval County Public Schools, she’s focused on helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in more advanced classes and beyond.
“We’re always working toward that goal, making sure they’re ready for college success.”
Over time, those small wins turn into something bigger. Students begin to believe in themselves. They see what’s possible.
And eventually, it leads to that moment, walking across the stage with a diploma and a future ahead of them.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Lake Lucina Elementary with Duval County Public Schools, growth isn’t just something you talk about it’s something you see every day.
In one classroom, that growth starts with a first-year teacher who’s all in.
Mrs. Katrina Jennings is learning, adapting, and showing up with purpose, embracing every opportunity to get better and give more to her students.
“She embraces a growth mindset and is always eager to learn and improve.”
And that mindset is showing up where it matters most.
Her 2nd graders are building confidence, strengthening their skills, and getting ready for what’s next.
This is what it looks like when passion meets purpose. When a teacher invests in herself, her students rise with her.
It’s the kind of impact that shapes more than a school year it shapes what comes after.
Join Team Duval
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
In one classroom, that growth starts with a first-year teacher who’s all in.
Mrs. Katrina Jennings is learning, adapting, and showing up with purpose, embracing every opportunity to get better and give more to her students.
“She embraces a growth mindset and is always eager to learn and improve.”
And that mindset is showing up where it matters most.
Her 2nd graders are building confidence, strengthening their skills, and getting ready for what’s next.
This is what it looks like when passion meets purpose. When a teacher invests in herself, her students rise with her.
It’s the kind of impact that shapes more than a school year it shapes what comes after.
Join Team Duval
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Mandarin High School with Duval County Public Schools, the lesson isn’t just about numbers t’s about what those numbers represent.
What looks like a simple transaction becomes something bigger. A chance to take responsibility. A moment to build confidence. A step toward understanding how the real world works.
“They’re learning how to show up on time, dress professionally, communicate with customers all those real-life skills that go far beyond high school.”
For teacher Rebeccah Campbell, that’s the goal.
After nearly a decade in the Navy, she found a new way to serve—helping students develop the skills they’ll carry long after they leave the classroom.
Here, students don’t just learn the concepts—they live them. Managing real tasks, working as a team, and gaining the confidence to take on what comes next.
It’s the kind of impact that stays with them.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
What looks like a simple transaction becomes something bigger. A chance to take responsibility. A moment to build confidence. A step toward understanding how the real world works.
“They’re learning how to show up on time, dress professionally, communicate with customers all those real-life skills that go far beyond high school.”
For teacher Rebeccah Campbell, that’s the goal.
After nearly a decade in the Navy, she found a new way to serve—helping students develop the skills they’ll carry long after they leave the classroom.
Here, students don’t just learn the concepts—they live them. Managing real tasks, working as a team, and gaining the confidence to take on what comes next.
It’s the kind of impact that stays with them.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
REGISTER FOR A BUS TODAY - Bus registration for the 2026–2027 school year is now open. All students who plan to ride a school bus next year must be registered in advance, including students enrolled in self-contained ESE programs. Families are encouraged to register as early as possible to help ensure a smooth start to the school year. Registration forms are available in Focus. For step-by-step instructions on how to complete the process, visit: www.duvalschools.org/busregistration
Inside a Montessori classroom at J. Allen Axson Elementary with Duval County Public Schools, the room doesn’t sound like a typical classroom.
You’ll see students moving between activities, carefully choosing materials, and quietly concentrating on the work in front of them. There are no rushed steps or rigid routines just curiosity guiding the learning process.
That’s exactly what teacher Shannon Simon loves most.
She believes when children are trusted to explore and make choices, something powerful happens. Confidence grows. Curiosity deepens. And learning becomes something students truly enjoy.
For Simon, those moments when a child suddenly understands something new when their face lights up with excitement are the reason she calls this her dream job.
Montessori learning at Duval County Public Schools helps students build independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning one discovery at a time.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who create meaningful learning experiences for students every day.
You’ll see students moving between activities, carefully choosing materials, and quietly concentrating on the work in front of them. There are no rushed steps or rigid routines just curiosity guiding the learning process.
That’s exactly what teacher Shannon Simon loves most.
She believes when children are trusted to explore and make choices, something powerful happens. Confidence grows. Curiosity deepens. And learning becomes something students truly enjoy.
For Simon, those moments when a child suddenly understands something new when their face lights up with excitement are the reason she calls this her dream job.
Montessori learning at Duval County Public Schools helps students build independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning one discovery at a time.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support educators who create meaningful learning experiences for students every day.
At Dinsmore Elementary, the first year of school is about more than learning letters and numbers. It’s about helping children believe they can succeed.
Kindergarten teacher Zetosha Williams helps make that happen every day.
With 15 years in education, Williams focuses on creating a classroom where curiosity is welcomed, laughter is encouraged, and learning feels exciting for young students experiencing school for the very first time.
Her goal is simple: build a strong academic foundation while helping children develop a lifelong love of learning.
Moments like these are happening in classrooms across Duval County Public Schools, where educators are helping students grow in confidence, creativity, and possibility.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support passionate educators who make a difference in the lives of students every day.
Kindergarten teacher Zetosha Williams helps make that happen every day.
With 15 years in education, Williams focuses on creating a classroom where curiosity is welcomed, laughter is encouraged, and learning feels exciting for young students experiencing school for the very first time.
Her goal is simple: build a strong academic foundation while helping children develop a lifelong love of learning.
Moments like these are happening in classrooms across Duval County Public Schools, where educators are helping students grow in confidence, creativity, and possibility.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
Duval County Public Schools is proud to support passionate educators who make a difference in the lives of students every day.
Students from the University of North Florida are committing to become teachers with Duval County Public Schools through the Jacksonville Teacher Residency (JTR), a year-long AmeriCorps program.
JTR is a partnership between Duval County Public Schools and the University of North Florida that gives aspiring educators the opportunity to gain hands-on classroom experience while working alongside highly qualified DCPS mentor teachers.
Throughout the year, residents build the skills and confidence needed to lead their own classrooms and make a lasting impact on students across Jacksonville.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to help develop the next generation of educators and strengthen classrooms across our community.
Learn more about careers with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
JTR is a partnership between Duval County Public Schools and the University of North Florida that gives aspiring educators the opportunity to gain hands-on classroom experience while working alongside highly qualified DCPS mentor teachers.
Throughout the year, residents build the skills and confidence needed to lead their own classrooms and make a lasting impact on students across Jacksonville.
Duval County Public Schools is proud to help develop the next generation of educators and strengthen classrooms across our community.
Learn more about careers with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
At Englewood High, Spanish for Spanish Speakers is showing students that language is more than grammar it’s identity.
In Señora Martin’s classroom, heritage speakers strengthen their Spanish while building confidence in who they are. Culture isn’t set aside. It’s celebrated.
“I love my job. I love my kids. I love what I do.”
Students arrive early. They stay through lunch. They choose this space because it feels like familia.
For many, mastering English is a mountain. Here, they climb it together — supported, encouraged, and proud of where they come from.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
In Señora Martin’s classroom, heritage speakers strengthen their Spanish while building confidence in who they are. Culture isn’t set aside. It’s celebrated.
“I love my job. I love my kids. I love what I do.”
Students arrive early. They stay through lunch. They choose this space because it feels like familia.
For many, mastering English is a mountain. Here, they climb it together — supported, encouraged, and proud of where they come from.
Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
