NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2026
Putnam City Schools is proud to announce Felicia Reasnor, a kindergarten teacher at James L. Dennis Elementary, as the 2026 District Teacher of the Year. The distinguished honor was presented at the annual Teachers of the Year Banquet, sponsored by the Putnam City Foundation, where the District’s Site Teachers of the Year and the Top 5 finalists were celebrated.
Ms. Reasnor brings 31 years of experience in education to her classroom, including 11 years as a dedicated kindergarten teacher at Dennis Elementary. Her commitment to nurturing young learners and her passion for the teaching profession have made her a beloved figure among students, families, and colleagues.
‘’I was inspired to become a teacher through a combination of my love for children, my passion for learning, and the remarkable educators who shaped my own educational journey,’’ said Ms. Reasnor. ‘’The greatest rewards of teaching are found in the everyday moments I share with my students.’’
Superintendent Dr. Fred Rhodes praised Ms. Reasnor as a standout representative of the District’s commitment to educational excellence. ‘’Being a Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor that highlights the best of the best in education,’’ said Dr. Rhodes. ‘’Ms. Reasnor is extremely deserving of this honor as she is a bold example of what it means to be an educator, not only for her students but also for her colleagues. We are proud of Ms. Reasnor and excited to cheer for her during the State Teacher of the Year application process.’’
The banquet and the gift items that each Teacher of the Year received were made possible by The Putnam City Foundation and several community sponsors, including Simple Modern. Mike Beckham, Simple Modern CEO, co-founder, and Putnam City alumnus, was present to honor and announce Ms. Reasnor at the banquet. ‘’It is an honor to celebrate the extraordinary work happening across Putnam City Schools,’’ said Beckham. ‘’The Top 5 finalists represent the very best of what strong leadership, dedicated educators, and committed communities can accomplish together. I’m proud to stand alongside the Putnam City Schools Foundation, Superintendent, and administration to recognize this year’s District Teacher of the Year. My time in Putnam City played a defining role in shaping my values and leadership, and I carry that influence with me every day.’’
The District Teacher of the Year is chosen from a lengthy application and essay ranking process and an interview with community leaders, the PC Foundation, and district administration. As the 2026 District Teacher of the Year, Ms. Reasnor will participate in the State Teacher of the Year application process, where she will represent Putnam City Schools among Oklahoma’s finest educators.