Congratulations to Clair Antoon-Newton of El Dorado High School for being named the 2025 Arkansas Rural Education Association (AREA) Teacher of the Year for the South Region!
Clair will be recognized at a ceremony in July, where she will receive a Crystal Apple Award and a $1,000 check from the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas. This prestigious award honors outstanding educators in rural Arkansas who demonstrate excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to their students and communities.
Reflecting on the honor, Clair shared, "Southern Arkansas schools are filled to the brim with incredible educators who are dedicated to their students and their craft. I am so honored to bring home a win for our Co-Operative, but I wouldn't be the teacher I am today without my coworkers, mentors, administration, and family. Teaching is truly a community partnership, and I am blessed to belong to the El Dorado School District!”
The El Dorado School District is incredibly proud of Clair for receiving this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication, passion, and leadership continue to make a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the entire school community.