During the David Emanuel Academy Honors Day program on Wednesday, May 20, the atmosphere shifted from celebrating student achievement to honoring faculty excellence. In a surprise presentation, Mrs. Brandi Mills was announced as the 2025-2026 SOAR Teacher of the Year. This award is a unique distinction at DEA, as the recipient is selected through a collective vote from teachers, staff, administration, the Board of Trustees, and parents. To be chosen by such a diverse group highlights the far-reaching impact Mrs. Mills has made on the entire school "ecosystem." While Mrs. Mills is a fixture in the classroom, her dedication extends well past the final bell. For several years, she has selflessly led the DEA after-school program. By providing a safe, nurturing environment for students, she ensures that DEA parents can work to provide for their families with peace of mind. This commitment was cited as a primary example of her "SOAR" spirit—consistently rising above and beyond the call of duty. In the classroom, Mrs. Mills manages the critical subjects of Math and History for 4th and 5th-grade students. Described during the ceremony as a "soft-spoken powerhouse," she is known for quiet leadership, high expectations, and character building. Her positive attitude and steady presence have become a "light in the hallways" of the academy. As the 2025-2026 SOAR Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Mills stands as a testament to the idea that to "SOAR" is to rise above the ordinary through steady effort and a genuine heart for others.
