Ask for More Jackson, with support from the Community Foundation for Mississippi and an anonymous donor, celebrated the 2025 JPS Outstanding Educators in a heartfelt ceremony October 2025, recognizing teachers who go above and beyond for scholars and  their schools.

This year’s honorees are:

• Jazstiny Baily – Obama Magnet ES
• Nikita Hamilton – Bates ES
• Benardytte Stokes – Elementary Network II
• Tiffany Benson – John Hopkins ES
• Ashley Harris – Johnson ES
• Angela Harris – McWillie ES
• Taschia Thompson – Spann ES
• Faydrian Jennings-Gilmer – Shirley ES
• Crystal Moncrief – Timberlawn ES
• Jessica Cox – Walton ES

The program opened with remarks from Gwen Gardner, Executive Director of Ask for More Jackson, who spoke about the daily sacrifices educators make and the lasting impact they have on scholars. JPS Chief of Staff, Dr. William Merritt shared words of encouragement, and Superintendent Dr. Errick Greene expressed gratitude to Ask for More Jackson for shining a light on those who shape young minds every day.

Ask for More Jackson engages communities to advocate for and affect change in public education. Through its partnerships with teachers and artists, the organization works to enhance learning and expand access to arts education across Jackson Public Schools.