Jeanne McQueen Named Emerson Teacher of the Year

Jeanne McQueen, a fifth-grade teacher at Glenridge Elementary School, has been selected as this year’s Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award recipient. Sponsored by Emerson, the award honors outstanding educators across the St. Louis region who exemplify excellence in their field.

In Clayton, recipients are nominated by colleagues and selected by a panel of past District honorees. A lifelong learner, McQueen was chosen for this award for her deep commitment to student learning, equity and innovation. In her nomination letter, she is described as an educator who “excels at empowering her students to take charge of their own learning and success.”

One example of this is her creation of “Griffin Time”, a dedicated block built into her classroom schedule for targeted support or enrichment. Colleagues say this practice is driving measurable gains by giving students exactly what they need to thrive.

“We are so fortunate to have her on our faculty,” said Principal Dr. Tarita Murdock. “Her belief that learning flourishes only when students feel they belong is evident in every lesson she teaches and every interaction she has. Every day she changes outcomes for kids, and for that, she deserves to be celebrated.”

Beyond her classroom, McQueen is a trusted colleague who values collaboration. She mentors new teachers, advocates for students and families and has been instrumental in helping families in need connect with essential resources.

A career educator, McQueen began teaching kindergarten in 1993. She joined the School District of Clayton in 2014 as a reading specialist at Meramec and, since 2017, has taught fourth and fifth grade at Glenridge.

McQueen was surprised with the news of her selection during a special gathering in the school library, surrounded by family, students and colleagues. As Clayton’s recipient, she joins an accomplished group of educators making a measurable difference for students across the region.

In May, she will be formally recognized at the District’s annual employee awards program, MayFair. Congratulations to Jeanne McQueen!