Initially, Lawanna Jackson considered a career as a doctor or lawyer, but ultimately chose a different path after completing her student teaching internship as part of her biology pre-med and early education double major at Florida A&M University.
Since then, for the past 22 years, Jackson, 44, has inspired and empowered children as a math and science educator.
For her commitment and impact, the School District of Palm Beach County and the Education Foundation honored Jackson as Teacher of the Year during its 5th Annual Celebrate the Great Awards.
A 5th-grade teacher at Galaxy E3 Elementary School, Jackson said being named Teacher of the Year is an amazing accomplishment and that she is grateful for the acknowledgement of her hard work and dedication.
“I believe in teaching the whole child,” she stated. “I believe it’s bigger than teaching math, reading, writing, and science. I think you have to provide real-world situations to all children, and you have to meet them where they are.”
Jackson said she is proud to be an educator within the School District of Palm Beach County, an A-rated school district in Florida. “I do feel like I am somebody who is very well known in the school district, not just in the classroom but also in the community,” she commented. “I do feel like it’s full circle.”
Her unique teaching philosophy, combined with compassion, is one of the many ways Jackson stands out as an exemplary educator.
Jackson believes mental health challenges are one of the greatest obstacles students are facing in their academic journeys.
“You have to let them know you’ve experienced the same issues they’re dealing with at home that we as adults are dealing with. It may be hunger, homelessness. They may have experienced death.”
Overcoming a personal tragedy enabled Jackson to have a unique understanding of life challenges students may be facing.
On October 23, 2024, Jackson’s 18-year-old son, Jayson H. Brown, was involved in a terrible car accident and passed away on June 3. She struggled to navigate her grief while witnessing other people’s children achieve milestones and successes that her son would not. After spending some time away from work, Jackson returned to Galaxy E3 Elementary School, finding comfort and a stronger sense of purpose inspired by her 13-year-old daughter, students, colleagues, and community.
“You have to be relatable,” said Jackson, who explained that she wants her students to view her as a trusted adult and know that they can come to her for guidance and support.
Principal Vonda Daniels recalled how Jackson positively impacted her life when an injury caused her to take a two-month leave of absence. Jackson offered assistance and ensured everything continued to run smoothly.
“Here’s a person who should be worried about herself, and she’s worried about me and the school and making sure that we are a success,” Daniels stated.
She added, “She really wants to make sure that she inspires, trains, and uplifts all the teachers. That has really made a difference this year.”
For Jackson, as Teacher of the Year, she believes she represents the interests and concerns of not only students, but her fellow colleagues as well.
“I’m excited to be the voice of Palm Beach County,” Jackson said. “If there’s ever a time when they need me to speak on behalf of a teacher, I feel like I have a wealth of knowledge to share.”
