Teacher of the Year Finalist: Shekita Shinholster, Oak Hill Middle School

Shekita Shinholster grew up in Milledgeville, GA, and graduated from Baldwin High School in 2005. She has been in education for 7 years, with 3 years as a long-term substitute teacher. She pursued teaching because of her passion for the students. She prides herself on the positive relationships she fosters to influence them to learn. 

Shinholster teaches eighth-grade physical science at Oak Hill Middle School. She believes all children can learn and succeed despite their cultural backgrounds and challenges. Thus, for the last seven years, Shinholster has focused on the whole child and creating lasting relationships with students. Under her influence, students have discovered their passion and purpose for learning, tapped into their social and emotional well-being, and become contributing citizens.

Shinholster’s pedagogical priorities include fostering trusting and effective relationships with students to influence classroom learning positively and creating a safe learning space. She believes that students must be mentally and emotionally stable before they can invest in their education.

Shinholster’s educational background includes an Associate in Business Administration from Macon State College, a Bachelor of Science in Business/Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix, a Master in Health Administration/Informatics from the University of Phoenix, and a Master of Art in Teaching/Middle Grades Education from Georgia College & State University, with a certification in math and science. Shinholster is also enrolled in a Tier 1 Leadership Certification Program at the University of West Georgia.