HARTFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ 2025 TEACHER OF THE YEAR IS ASHANTEE HYMAN FROM MILNER MIDDLE SCHOOL
I have always loved photographing all-things-education. While my favorite place to be with my camera is in the classroom, there are galas that honor teachers and the extraordinary work they do which are also fun to cover. My favorite is the annual Hartford Public Schools “Teacher-of-the-Year” celebration that I have photographed for years in the ballroom of the Hartford Marriott. As a photographer, it’s an interesting opportunity to blend candids and portraits, key moments and exuberant celebration! I also love the opportunity to recognize and create dignified portraits of teachers, especially urban educators, who are working harder than ever in this post-pandemic time when the challenges are enormous.
Our yearly shot of 50 awardees, one from each school in the city, was rained out in our normal outdoor location, so we brought it inside to the steps of the Connecticut Convention Center. Always a fun challenge to get that many people smiling with their eyes open!
This year’s three finalists were AMAZING,
and their ‘fan clubs’ were full of joy when their names were called. Jumping up to celebrate Ashantee Hyman, when she was introduced as a finalist, was Milner’s principal Leanardo Watson.
There are great opportunities for posed shots with dignitaries, families and colleagues, shots on the dance floor and adorned with crowns and boas in the photo booth, and the exciting challenge of capturing the key moment(s) needed by my client of the winner as s/he hears the announcement. There is A, when Ashantee Hyman, a science teacher at Milner Middle School is introduced, along with the other two finalists.
B when emotion overwhelms her as she was chosen as Hartford’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
and C, when she hugs her mom before taking the stage.
A is dignified and beautiful. B is pure documentary, but maybe not flattering. C is nice but quiet. Which is your favorite?
Ashantee’s warmth shown through her words as she took the podium to share her story and some stories about her students. I wish her a wonderful year as Hartford’s Teacher of the Year. To read more about her, click here.