Ja’Quita Keller named Teacher of the Year at Vicksburg Junior High School

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Ja’Quita Keller has been named Teacher of the Year at Vicksburg Junior High School, an honor recognizing her instructional excellence, dedication and impact on students and school culture.

Keller has spent eight years teaching in the Vicksburg Warren School District and is currently in her second year at Vicksburg Junior High School. She has previously taught at Sherman Avenue Elementary School and Vicksburg High School before joining the junior high faculty.

“What I enjoy most about teaching at Vicksburg Junior High School is the students — their energy, resilience, and willingness to grow,” Keller said. “They bring diverse perspectives, creativity, and determination into the classroom each day. Watching them develop confidence, find their voices, and realize their potential both academically and personally is the most rewarding part of being their teacher.”

A graduate of Port Gibson High School, Keller earned her associate degree from Hinds Community College. She later obtained both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Alcorn State University and is currently enrolled at Delta State University, where she is pursuing an Education Specialist degree in Educational Administration and Supervision.

“My favorite part of teaching is building meaningful relationships with students and helping them discover their confidence and potential,” Keller said. “Seeing students grow, overcome challenges, and believe in themselves is the most rewarding aspect of my profession.”

Keller said her mission in the classroom extends beyond academics.

“My goal is for my students to leave my classroom academically prepared, socially confident, and emotionally empowered,” she said. “I want them to think critically, advocate for themselves, and understand that their voices and futures truly matter.”

She said being named Teacher of the Year was a humbling experience.

“Being named Teacher of the Year is truly humbling,” Keller said. “I am grateful and honored to be recognized for a profession and purpose that I am deeply passionate about. This recognition reflects not only my work, but also the support of my colleagues and the resilience and dedication of my students.”

Teacher of the Year is determined through a selection process that includes input from school leadership and staff and is based on instructional excellence, dedication and overall impact on students and school culture. In addition to her teaching duties, Keller serves as the Student Council Advisor at Vicksburg Junior High School.