- December 27, 2025
Wadsworth Elementary School Teacher of the Year Emily Creel is in her first year as the school dean. She previously spent three years as Wadsworth’s coordinator of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and five years teaching kindergarten. She first came to Wadsworth for her internship while completing her degree at UCF. Creel said she’s loved Wadsworth so much she’s never left.
This year marks her ninth official year of teaching. She graduated from UCF in 2017 and earned her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Stetson University in 2022. Creel was raised — and still lives — in Jacksonville. She and her son Johnny, a student at Matanzas High School, commute every day, “because we truly love our schools,” she said.
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I would line up my dolls as my “students” and pretend to teach them to read, just like my favorite teacher, Mrs. Kress, once taught me. As I grew older and moved through middle and high school, that childhood dream faded, and I wasn’t quite sure where life would lead me.
In 2010, everything changed when I had my son, Johnny. Watching him grow, learn and make sense of his emotions reignited my passion for education. Seeing the world through his eyes reminded me of the joy and purpose teaching had always held for me. Johnny is the reason I found my way back to this calling, and I truly wouldn’t be the educator I am today without him.
How does the nomination make you feel?
I am genuinely overwhelmed with gratitude. Wadsworth Elementary has become so much more than the place where I work — it’s a community that inspires me every single day. I feel unbelievably fortunate to be surrounded by such passionate, dedicated professionals who pour their hearts into their students and into one another. Their support, collaboration and commitment to doing what’s best for kids is something truly special. Being part of this team is an honor, and I’m grateful beyond words for the people who make Wadsworth feel like home.
What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?
What I love most about being a teacher is watching students discover their potential and gain confidence in themselves. Every day brings new moments of growth, curiosity and joy, and being there to guide, encourage and celebrate those moments is incredibly rewarding. I also love the connections I build — not just with students, but with families and colleagues — creating a supportive community where everyone can thrive. Teaching is not just a job for me; it’s a privilege to be part of these children’s journeys and to help shape their love of learning.
What is one thing you are taking away from this experience?
Being named Teacher of the Year at Wadsworth has been an incredibly humbling and inspiring experience. One thing I’m taking away from it is the power of community — how much we can accomplish when we support one another, celebrate each other’s strengths, and work together for our students. It has reminded me that teaching is not just about what happens in the classroom, but about building connections, lifting others up, and making a lasting impact every single day.
Being a teacher can be challenging at times. What keeps you motivated?
Teaching can certainly be challenging at times, but what keeps me motivated is the students. Seeing their growth, curiosity and excitement for learning reminds me every day why I chose this profession. Knowing that I have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives — and to help them believe in themselves — fuels my passion, even on the toughest days. The moments of connection, laughter and discovery make it all worth it.
What is a memorable experience that influenced the way you approach educating students?
I have always struggled with two things: confidence and math. I remember one day in second grade when we were getting back our graded math tests. Mrs. Kress instructed us to put our papers in our take-home folders and get ready for the next activity. Of course, everyone started comparing scores. When I saw mine — 60% — I felt defeated. Regrouping had gotten me again! As I quickly tried to put it away, another student snatched it from my hand and laughed at my score. I felt like I wanted to disappear. I started to cry.
Mrs. Kress calmly walked over, gave him the look, and retrieved my paper. She told me everything would be OK and gave me a reassuring wink. Her calm, discreet handling of the situation allowed me to collect myself, and we moved on. Later, she purposefully called on me to answer questions I knew, celebrating my success in front of the class. At that moment, my confidence soared — I felt like I could do anything. I think about that experience often and strive to have the same impact on my students: to help them feel valued and seen while remaining calm, supportive and collected. I currently have my second grade class picture in my office and I often look at it when I need a reminder. And don’t worry — my mom did get me a math tutor to help!
If there was one piece of wisdom you could share with students, what would it be?
Enjoy every moment of your life — it goes by so quickly! Take chances, be silly, and try new things, even if they feel scary. Some of my biggest regrets have come from holding back because I was too shy, and I want to inspire our students to be bold, brave and fearless in pursuing their dreams. Life is meant to be lived fully, and every step, even the uncertain ones, is worth it.
Aside from your job, what are some other things you enjoy in your daily life?
When I’m not at Wadsworth, I love spending time with my family and friends. We’re Universal Studios passholders, so you’ll often find us exploring the parks. I also enjoy puzzles, reading, listening to podcasts, binge-watching TV shows, and hanging out with my three mischievous cats. I make sure to see my dad and brother at least twice a week — those visits are always full of laughs and the little moments that make life special.
