Our new print issue will feature “Goodbye Summer, Hello School!” content about the end of the summer season and gearing up for back to school in our communities.
For that reason, we’ve decided to put a strong focus on our Community Spotlight category of “Education.” Schools are truly the backbone of so many communities. So without further ado, let’s shine a light on our teachers, administrators, support staff and parent volunteers who selflessly dedicate themselves to our kids!
Ms. Strother was nominated by Helen Fort Principal Mr. Aaron Eyler. Here is what he had to say about this outstanding teacher!
Ms. Kaya Strother is a standout 7th grade educator at Helen Fort Middle School whose first year of teaching was nothing short of extraordinary. With a passion for student voice and civic engagement, Ms. Strother led a powerful advocacy-based research project where students explored real-world issues and presented their findings to outside judges—culminating in donations to nonprofit organizations through a partnership with GivingCycle. She brings structure, creativity, and warmth to the classroom, using innovative tools like IXL and Google Classroom to personalize instruction and track growth. Her “Secret Student” strategy, now adopted by her PLC, is just one example of how she builds a positive, high-accountability culture for learning. Beyond academics, she’s a constant presence at extracurricular events, always cheering on her students. Her professionalism, collaboration, and heart have already left a lasting mark on HFMS.
In only her first year, Ms. Kaya Strother has proven herself to be a force for good at Helen Fort Middle School. Her classroom is a space where students feel safe, seen, and empowered—because she intentionally builds relationships and sets high expectations for all. She not only teaches content but also instills values like advocacy, collaboration, and personal responsibility. Ms. Strother goes above and beyond by serving on the Sunshine Committee, volunteering at school events, and providing after-school tutoring to help students reach their potential. Her instructional choices reflect a willingness to grow, adapt, and refine her practice—demonstrating wisdom well beyond her years of experience. Highlighting her means celebrating a new generation of teachers who are as dedicated to student growth as they are to personal growth. Ms. Strother isn’t just making an impact—she’s building a legacy.
“Ms. Strother represents everything we want in an educator—dedicated, reflective, and relentlessly student-centered. She’s made an incredible impact in just one year, and Helen Fort is truly lucky to have her,” said Ms. Marie Germano, Supervisor of ELA and Social Studies at Helen Fort.
Community Spotlights
If you know someone you think we should shine our Community Spotlight on, email us at [email protected].
Right now we’re focusing on our South Jersey Educators category, which we’ll continue to run now and through the beginning of fall. So if you know someone who deserves a special shout-out, get in touch!
We’re also always looking for nominees in the following categories:
First Responders: Police, Fire, EMT, Dispatch, Active Military
Food Service Industry Workers: Waitstaff, Bussers, Servers, Chefs, Cooks, Dishwashers
Volunteers: Nonprofit Workers, Youth Sports Coaches, Scout Leaders, PTO Volunteers
Public Servants: Elected Officials and Support Staff at every Government Agency serving South Jersey at the Municipal, County, State and Federal levels
Healthcare Workers: Nurses, Medical Assistants, Administrative Support Staff
Beverage Service Industry Workers: Anyone who works in a Bar, Coffee Shop, Brewery, Winery or Distillery