NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 4, 2025
Contact: AJ Graffeo, Director of Communications
Putnam City Schools Announces Alex Rivera as 2024-2025 District Teacher of the Year
Putnam City Schools proudly announces that Alex Rivera, an elementary music teacher at Hilldale Elementary, has been named the 2024-2025 District Teacher of the Year. Mr. Rivera was honored tonight at the districtwide Teacher of the Year Ceremony in front of his colleagues, family, and friends. Mr. Rivera, a passionate and dedicated educator, has been recognized for his commitment to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and student success through the power of music.
Mr. Rivera, who has been with Putnam City Schools since 2023, brings a decade of experience in music education with a consistent goal of making a lasting impact on students through innovative instruction and mentorship, just like his teachers did for him. Mr. Rivera credits those teachers for surrounding him with love, care, and encouragement as he persevered through childhood adversity, graduated high school, and became a first-generation college student. As a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Music Education in voice, Mr. Rivera is now a strong advocate for arts education and student empowerment.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Rivera is a respected leader in the music education community. He serves as the Region O Chairperson for Circle the State and has presented at numerous state and national conferences on topics such as diversity in music education, bilingual instruction, and fostering student engagement through creative learning techniques. His passion for ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and valued is evident in his teaching philosophy and daily interactions with students.
"My main goal is to cultivate an environment where it is safe to create, make mistakes, ask questions, and be your truest self," said Mr. Rivera.
The Putnam City Schools Teacher of the Year program is a rigorous process that highlights exceptional educators who demonstrate a dedication to student success and are champions for the education profession. Mr. Rivera was first selected as Hilldale Elementary Site Teacher of the Year, an honor awarded by his colleagues. He then completed a comprehensive application, which included detailed essays and an interview with a distinct committee of community members.
Mr. Rivera’s recognition as District Teacher of the Year highlights his dedication to making a meaningful impact on students, colleagues, and the broader education community. He said, “Together, we are the village raising our children to be the next generation to have hope, passion, and purpose.” His deep-rooted innovative approach, mentorship, and unwavering support for student and educator success make him an outstanding representative of excellence within Putnam City Schools and the broader education community. Mr. Rivera will go on to represent Putnam City Schools, applying for the State Teacher of the Year.
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