Meet an Excellence in Teaching Awards educator: Zataya Rivenbark

June 8, 2026

We’re featuring some of the educators who were recognized with 2025 Excellence in Teaching Awards for making a significant impact on students’ academic growth.

Zataya Rivenbark teaches kindergarten at Minnie Hughes Elementary School and has been teaching there for four years. Last year, her students grew 1.49 years in math, which means they grew 49 percent more than expected in one academic year. In reading, her students grew 1.32 years, which means they grew 32 percent more than expected in one academic year.

Tell me about how you first heard about the Excellence in Teaching Awards.

I first heard about the Excellence in Teaching Awards through one of my sorority sisters who taught at an Excellence in Teaching Awards school before our school was added to the program. She shared her experience with me and explained how the program recognizes teachers for their students’ academic growth and achievement. Hearing about the positive impact it had, including the large lump-sum award she received based on her students’ scores, made me interested in the program and motivated me to learn more about it. I was ecstatic when my school was added the following school year. 

How have the Excellence in Teaching Awards impacted you and the teachers around you?  

The Excellence in Teaching Awards have impacted me tremendously. It has provided opportunities I once only dreamed about, including allowing me to purchase land in my own community with cash. As someone who pours so much into my students and community, it feels rewarding to see that work recognized in such a meaningful way. 

What does this award represent to you beyond its financial support?

Beyond financial support, this award represents the fruits of my labor. I invest a great deal of time, energy and heart into my school and community through long nights, weekends, after-school tutoring and work outside of school hours. This recognition reminds me that dedication and sacrifices are making a difference. 

What advice would you give to new teachers who are striving to achieve similar results?

My advice to new teachers is simple: put in the work. Be consistent, stay passionate, build relationships and always be willing to grow. The results will come with time, effort and dedication. 

What specific strategies did you implement that led to such significant academic gains?

Some of the strategies I implemented that led to significant academic gains included maintaining a heavy focus on data-driven instruction and moving toward more personalized learning. I continuously monitored student progress, adjusted instruction based on student needs and provided targeted support to help every child grow academically.