Darcey Austin, kindergarten teacher at Garfield Elementary, was named the 2024 Ponca City Teacher of the Year during a celebration on Tuesday night at the Ponca City Schools Concert Hall. Other finalists included Jill Klein from Ponca City High School and Jeremiah Belt from West Middle School.
“I would like to thank my family first of all,” said Austin. “They support me all the time. They are there for me and help me.”
Austin said she has an awesome team at Garfield Elementary. “You are the best and I love being there. It’s truly my second home. I love all of my kids at Garfield, even the ones that aren’t my kids anymore as they move to first, second and third grades … they will just always be my kids.”
“I am overwhelmed that I have received this honor. I’m shocked but thank you very much.”
