
In her classroom, students debate real-world issues, study Supreme Court cases and connect government lessons to the rights and responsibilities they see in their own lives.
For Jones, the work is personal. A graduate of Duval County Public Schools, she returned to the district to give students the same mentorship and encouragement she received growing up.
“I care about my community. I care about my students,” Jones said. “I grew up in Duval County Public Schools, and I just want to be that mentor to other students that I had when I was coming up.”
Now in her sixth year teaching civics, Jones said one of the most rewarding moments is hearing from former students who are beginning to participate in the democratic process.
“They’d be like, ‘Guess what Ms. Jones, I voted,’” Jones said.
Through classroom debates, mock trials and discussions tied to current events, Jones keeps students engaged while helping them understand how government connects to everyday life.
“I love teaching civics because it is so relatable,” Jones said. “The kids can actually relate it to what’s going on in the community or in the world.”
For Jones, teaching is also about helping students build confidence long before they leave middle school.
“These are the people that are going to take care of us when we get older,” Jones said.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring educators who want to make a difference in students’ lives. Walk-in interviews are available from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday at the district office, 1701 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207.
To learn more or apply, visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.







Inside Christopher McNealy’s nursing academy classroom, hospital beds, mannequins and monitors are part of the lesson. Students practice CPR, learn how to take vital signs and build the basic skills needed to enter the health care field.
“To have our children being able to do it here in high school is a blessing,” McNealy said.
McNealy, a trauma nurse, Army veteran, wrestling coach and teacher, leads Westside’s nursing academy program. Through the program, students can work toward certification, complete clinicals and even interview for jobs while still in high school.
“They go from high school directly to the workforce,” McNealy said. “Taking vital signs, knowing basic fundamentals of health care, is really essential.”
For McNealy, the work is personal. He said teaching gives him the opportunity to bring his real-world experience into the classroom and help students see what is possible for their future.
“This is my dream job,” McNealy said. “I can transition my knowledge to the children. This is the best thing.”
Duval County Public Schools continues to offer career-focused programs that help students build skills, earn credentials and explore pathways after graduation.
For those looking for meaningful work, Team Duval offers the chance to use your experience to serve students and help shape the next generation.
Walk-in interviews are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville. Candidates can meet with hiring staff, learn about available positions and take the first step toward employment with Duval County Public Schools.
Learn more about careers with Duval County Public Schools at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.










Students recently transformed simple bridge tracings into “Starry Night” inspired artwork while learning about creativity, color and famous artists. But for Baiata, the most important part of art class is helping students discover confidence in themselves.
“I feel like every single day I wake up and I get to do what I love,” Baiata said. “You see their excitement. You see they’re just so creative. They just needed an outlet. This is where I belong.”
Baiata teaches all levels of art at Brookview Elementary and says watching students come out of their shells is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.
“She really took the extra time to guide me onto a path that probably I belonged on my whole life,” Baiata said while reflecting on the art teacher who inspired her growing up.
A graduate of the University of New Hampshire, Baiata brings a passion for creativity, student connection and art history into every lesson, creating a classroom where students feel encouraged to be themselves.
Duval County Public Schools is currently hiring educators and support staff across the district.
Walk in interviews are held Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville.
To apply, visit:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers










Popsicle sticks become inventions. Plastic cups become building tools. Rulers become part of hands on learning centers where students are encouraged to create, explore, and think outside the box.
A proud graduate of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and Duval County Public Schools, Oliver has returned to the same district that helped shape her own journey. Now, she is inspiring the next generation through creativity, encouragement, and a classroom environment built around curiosity and confidence.
Oliver says she wants school to feel like more than just a place students come to learn.
“School is not just somewhere where we come and learn, but it is our home.”
That feeling is visible throughout her classroom, where colorful student projects, collaborative activities, and engaging lessons help students feel comfortable taking chances and expressing themselves.
Through hands on learning and creativity, Oliver is helping her students build confidence that will carry far beyond first grade.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring passionate educators ready to make a difference in the lives of students.
Walk in interviews are held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville.
Apply online at:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers









Students move throughout the room working together, solving problems, and learning in ways designed around how they learn best. Snyder believes relationships are the foundation for everything that happens inside her classroom.
“Once you’re able to get on their level in a way, you are then able to unlock what they’re learning,” Snyder said.
After 11 years in education, Snyder says the most rewarding moments are watching students suddenly gain confidence in themselves and realize they are capable of more than they thought.
“Those moments that you can see on them where they really just open up and they’re able to get it and grasp it and they’re like, ‘Oh, this is easy.’ Those are the moments that you love,” Snyder said.
That atmosphere of trust and support is part of what keeps Snyder passionate about teaching at Duval County Public Schools.
“The reason why Duval is different than other counties is because here at Duval, it’s like we’re a family. It feels like home,” Snyder said.
Duval County Public Schools is currently hiring educators and support staff across the district.
Walk in interviews are held Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville.
To apply, visit:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers







The event featured information on full time positions including paraprofessionals, office support staff, nurses, and other school support roles. Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with representatives about careers that help support students and schools throughout Jacksonville.
The hiring event was hosted in partnership with the GoodCareers Center and brought together community members interested in making a difference through education and student support services.
Duval County Public Schools continues to hire for a variety of positions across the district.
Walk in interviews are available:
• Monday through Friday
• 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Interview location:
• 1701 Prudential Drive
• Jacksonville, FL 32207
To learn more about available positions or apply online, visit:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers










Her classroom is filled with movement, music, hands-on activities and real-world learning designed to help students connect with what they are being taught.
Originally from Egypt, Reiad came to the United States in 2001. After raising her children and spending seven years as a substitute teacher, she found her calling in education.
“I’m not teaching them just to take the test and pass and that’s it,” Reiad said. “I want them to use it in their life, like real life.”
Reiad said every child learns differently, which is why she works to create lessons that meet students where they are. Her approach helps students stay engaged while also building the confidence they need to speak up, try again and believe in themselves.
“It is very important they feel like we are taking care about them here,” Reiad said.
For Reiad, some of the most meaningful moments come when she sees students grow academically and personally throughout the year.
“I love to see my kids growth,” Reiad said. “Like, they changed.”
At Duval County Public Schools, educators like Reiad are helping students develop skills that go beyond the classroom and support their success for years to come.
Duval County Public Schools is currently hiring.
Walk in interview hours:
• Monday through Friday
• 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Interview location:
• 1701 Prudential Drive
• Jacksonville, FL 32207
Apply online:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers








Each week, high school students visit Parkwood Heights Elementary School to mentor younger students, offering encouragement, support and connection through reading and classroom activities.
For teacher Liset Rivet, the experience is about more than service. It is helping students discover confidence, purpose and the power of their own voice.
“They learn they have something to give,” Rivet said.
Across Duval County Public Schools, opportunities like this show how students and educators can make a lasting impact in the lives of others.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring. Walk-in hours are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Learn more at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.










After working in international affairs and finance, Dimitrakopoulos began substitute teaching. One day in the classroom helped him discover a new path.
“Duval gave me my first opportunity for a job that I really love,” Dimitrakopoulos said.
Now, 25 years later, he continues to make an impact at Twin Lakes Academy Middle, where he leads by example and helps students grow through teamwork, connection and consistency.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring. Walk-in interviews are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1701 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207.
Learn more at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers
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Through classroom debates, mock legislative sessions and discussions about real-world issues, students learn how government works while building confidence in their own voices.
“They’re debating on what is a good idea for an amendment,” Ohmann said. “It’s really good discourse for them to have so they can learn how to engage in discussions respectfully.”
Ohmann has taught in Duval County Public Schools for 10 years and said his students continue to inspire him with their curiosity, questions and success.
“They prove me right every year,” Ohmann said. “They all pass the civics test every year — 100%.”
For Ohmann, civics is more than a subject. It is a way to help students think critically, listen to others and understand the world around them.
Duval County Public Schools is hiring educators and staff members who want to make an impact.
Walk-in hiring hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1701 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207.
Apply today: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers










With 30 years in education, Sowell helps students move beyond lectures by encouraging them to collect evidence, test ideas and make real-world connections. His classroom is built on movement, curiosity and discovery.
For some students, that spark has led to careers in environmental science, soil science, water quality and medicine.
Sowell, a Duval County Public Schools graduate, says he feels supported by the district and values the opportunity to collaborate with other educators.
Join Team Duval and start making a difference today. Walk-in hiring is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Apply online: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers









For Michaels, the program is about more than technology. “The future is now,” she said. “The students are the best part. It’s why I show up every day.” That focus on opportunity and student success reflects the broader mission of Duval County Public Schools, where educators are helping students gain real-world skills and a head start on their futures.
Interested in making an impact in Duval County Public Schools? Visit https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers









Ledford is one of four Duval County Public Schools educators recognized for their lasting impact in the classroom. The other recipients are Suzanne Copley of Sandalwood High School, Kim Kirton of Kernan Trail Elementary School and Jennifer Farrell of LaVilla School of the Arts.
Together, the four educators represent more than 100 years of combined experience serving students across Jacksonville.
Established in 1998 by philanthropist Gilchrist Berg, the Gladys Prior Award honors educators with distinguished careers in teaching and a lasting commitment to student success.






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 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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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










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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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
