A teacher at Green Middle School and Smithville High School has been named one of four finalists for 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year.
Jennifer Winkler is a visual art teacher in the district who previously worked as an artist at Carousel Works in Mansfield, painting murals and figures for carousels worldwide.
“I’ve had the opportunity to watch Ms. Winkler both in the classroom teaching and at many outside events. She is truly an exceptional teacher that has a passion and gift for teaching and learning,” said Dean E. Frank, superintendent of Green Local Schools. “Ms. Winkler’s commitment extends well beyond the school day as she leads the Art Club at countless community demonstrations. The Green Local Schools is blessed to have such an amazing educator for our children, and I cannot think of a more deserving teacher for this award.”
Winkler is a graduate of Ashland University where she earned simultaneous degrees in art education and fine arts while minoring in Spanish and art history, and continues to teach the university’s summer art camp.