District Teachers of the Year Announced

Posted on 09/10/2026

This year, the Seaman Education Association (SEA) announced an exciting partnership with the Seaman Education Advantage (SEAF) Foundation for the Teacher of the Year program. While SEA's selection process remained the same, SEAF is enhancing the celebration by awarding $100 to each building winner. In addition, our PreK/Elementary Teacher of the Year and our Secondary Teacher of the Year will each receive an additional $345 to use in their classrooms.

The Seaman Education Advantage Foundation was proud to support our teachers and excited to join in the USD 345 Teacher of the Year celebration. Congratulations to PreK/Elementary Teacher of the Year Angie Loy and Secondary Teacher of the Year Jill Becker!

Angie Loy – Elementary Teacher of the Year

Angie Loy is a dedicated second-grade teacher at West Indianola Elementary who has spent 14 years serving students in Seaman USD 345. Throughout her career, she has taught both first and second grade and has remained passionate about creating classrooms where every child feels safe, valued, supported, and excited to learn. At the heart of Angie’s teaching is her belief that every student is capable of learning and thriving. She prioritizes strong relationships, hands-on learning, student choice, and memorable experiences that allow students to have fun, take risks, build confidence, and develop a genuine love of learning. Angie’s impact extends far beyond her own classroom. She serves on building and district leadership teams, including the Guided Coalition/Building Leadership Team, Math Team, TASN MTSS Team, and District Standards Alignment Team. She is also committed to growing the next generation of educators through mentoring practicum students, student teachers, and new teachers. Angie has earned a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and continues to grow professionally through training in evidence-based instructional practices. Her colleagues describe her as a caring, energetic educator whose relationships, leadership, and commitment leave a lasting impact on students, families, and the entire school community.

Jill Becker – Secondary Teacher of the Year

Jill Becker is a dedicated special education teacher at Seaman Middle School with more than 20 years of experience in education. She has served at Seaman Middle School since 2007 and is also an adjunct psychology instructor at Highland Community College.

Jill is passionate about building strong relationships with students while maintaining high expectations and preparing them for success beyond the classroom. She founded Seaman Middle School’s Vocational and Life Skills Program, creating real-world opportunities for students with disabilities to develop employment, independent living, community access, and self-advocacy skills.

Beyond the classroom, Jill is a leader, mentor, advocate, and active member of the Seaman Middle School community. She serves in building leadership, supports special education staff with IEP development and compliance, and sponsors Honor Society, Student Council, and Spirit Club. At the heart of Jill’s work is a simple belief: every student deserves to feel safe, respected, valued, and understood—and every student deserves opportunities to grow in confidence and independence.