Her belief that each one is seen, valued and supported, allows her to transform her classroom into a perfect haven. For this alone, Edenfield was recognized as this year’s Clay County Rookie Teacher of the Year. It was a moment to remember, as she graced her way to the Thrasher-Horne Center stage in front of her peers on Jan. 22. 

Just weeks before, school staff and students were on the edge of their seats. Goosebumps lingering, even after a crowd of district personnel, including Superintendent David Broskie, arrived to present her the award in her third-grade classroom. 

“I worked so hard and I put a lot of effort almost every single day in here, just building those relationships with the kids,” she said. “So, it was very rewarding.” 

As a former Clay County student, it gives her reassurance and appreciation for what she’s doing as an educator. It has always been a dream of hers, inspired by the teachers that had an impact on her life. 

“I’ve been around kids my entire life. I just wanted to be that safety, you know, consistency that my teachers were for me. For next generations.” 

Edenfield began her journey while she was in high school, earning her associates degree at a young age. She began studying in the teaching program offered by St. Johns River State College and working as a paraprofessional at W.E. Cherry Elementary. For her internship, she took a job at Keystone Heights Elementary. And, after she applied for a temporary teaching certificate, she began teaching third grade before she had even graduated from college. 

Eventually she transitioned to her current position at Middleburg Elementary. It was a full-circle moment, as she also had partaken in an internship there. 

“It’s just been special,” she said.  

Middleburg Elementary third-grade teacher Brittany Morris acts as her teammate and teacher mentor. The two initially met during her internship period. Although Morris has been teaching for years at the school, it’s her first-year teaching third grade. 

“I feel like I’m a first-year teacher again. So, we are literally learning this together,” Morris said. 

Together, the two cultivate classrooms of community. Students are always ready to collaborate and form bonding relationships. Every lesson plan and experience is elevated with each of their input. Student progress is constantly monitored, and open communication with parents is always a must.  

And their hard work, Edenfield said, is measured by constant late nights and early mornings. But it’s always done with a smile. 

 From the beginning of the year to now, Edenfield said she’s seen a complete turnaround with some of her students.  

“It’s showing in how they’re responding and how they’re mastering the skills that we are presenting them. So, it’s all worth it,” she said. 

For Edenfield, it’s the relationship she builds with her students that keeps her going. She’s the embodiment of going above and beyond, Morris said. And she can’t wait for what’s next.