Teacher of the Year

Ms. Park’s journey as an educator began long before she ever entered a classroom. As the daughter of Korean immigrants, she grew up in a home where education was more than a priority — it was a promise. Her family believed deeply in the power of learning to open doors, expand possibilities, and transform futures. That belief shaped her identity, values, and ultimately her purpose: ensuring that the students she serves experience the same sense of opportunity, belonging, and hope that education provided for her.

Ms. Park is known for blending empathy, innovation, and authenticity into every learning experience. She views technology as a powerful tool for equity — one that strengthens literacy, expands access, and helps close achievement gaps for historically underserved students. Her teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to embrace their identities with confidence, recognize their strengths, and envision futures beyond the walls of their school. She believes that when students see themselves reflected in their learning, they begin to imagine possibilities they may never have considered before.

Her commitment to community is woven into everything she does. Through intentional networking and strong partnerships with local organizations, Ms. Park has brought meaningful opportunities, resources, and experiences to JCYMS. These collaborations have helped her develop programs that reflect students’ interests and identities, including a schoolwide eSports program that promotes teamwork, leadership, and innovation. As an instructional leader and mentor, she works alongside educators to create engaging, student-centered learning environments where meaningful technology integration supports every learner.

Specializing in hands-on STEAM learning and immersive digital experiences, Ms. Park designs lessons that encourage students to think critically, collaborate creatively, and explore the world beyond their school walls. Through partnerships with organizations such as Adobe Express, Google, Georgia Institute of Technology, and iFLY Indoor Skydiving, her students have gained opportunities to see themselves as innovators, creators, and problem-solvers while exploring career pathways they may not have previously imagined.

Ms. Park is an Apple Learning Coach, an EdFarm Fellow, and the recipient of the 2024–2025 Digital Transformation Champion Award from Digital Promise. Yet the recognition she values most is seeing her students walk with confidence, speak with pride, and dream with intention. Guided by the values her family instilled in her — work with purpose, lead with heart, and uplift every voice — she remains committed to ensuring that every student knows they belong, their identity matters, and their future is worth investing in.