Student Teacher of the Year Recipients

Dr. Marilyn Nicholas National Student Teacher of the Year

Each year, KDP and the Association of Teacher Educators select the National Student Teacher of the Year to celebrate the exceptional contributions of a student teacher who demonstrates remarkable dedication, skill, and passion for the teaching profession. In March 2025, we renamed the award the Dr. Marilyn Nicholas National Student Teacher of the Year award. This prestigious recognition honors those who not only excel in classroom management and instructional strategies but also forge meaningful connections with students, parents, and colleagues. Through their commitment to fostering inclusive, engaging learning environments, these outstanding educators inspire others and set a high standard for the future of education. 

 

Learn More about the Student Teacher of the Year and Apply

 

 

 

Ashlyn Bergethon

2024 STOY Recipient

Baylor University in Waco, Texas

Ashlyn Bergethon is a 2024 graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Texas, earning a bachelor's degree in Secondary Education and Mathematics concentration. She completed her student teaching at Robinson High School in Robinson, Texas. 

Ellen Romious

2023 STOY Recipient

University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas

Ellen Romious is a recent graduate from the University of the Incarnate Word. She is a first-year teacher, currently working at Louis D. Brandeis High School, in San Antonio, TX, teaching English I and II. She has previous experience working in healthcare as a physical therapist assistant. In her free time, she enjoys reading and writing science fiction and fantasy stories and spending time with her husband and three daughters. 

Emily Blackwell

2022 STOY Recipient

Baylor University in Waco, Texas

Emily Blackwell graduated magma cumme laude from Baylor Univeristy in 2022. She has a bachelor's degree in Education with a minor in dance. Emily is Baylor University’s 2022 Elementary Educator of the Year and KDP and ATE’s Student Teacher of the Year for 2022. She was involved in leadership for Zeta Tau Alpha, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Baylor Dance Company, and was Sweetheart for Pi Kappa Phi.