WORCESTER —Pamela Fanjoy isn’t just teaching toddlers their ABCs — she’s helping shape confident, curious little humans who love to learn. And now, the rest of the country is taking notice.
Fanjoy, who teachers toddlers at the Goddard School of Worcester, has been named a 2025 Teacher of the year Regional finalist, standing out among more than 8,500 nominations across the nation. The announcement came as part of school’s franchise system’s annual awards recognizing outstanding early childhood educators.
Fanjoy, who joined the Worcester school in 2021, was celebrated for the way she brings creativity, warmth, and connection into her classroom. According to the press release announcing the honorees, she was nominated for her “meaningful connections with families and students alike,” and for cultivating a classroom environment where children thrive through play, discovery, and care.
Now in its 19th year, the Teacher of the Year awards spotlight educators who demonstrate not only teaching excellence, but leadership and a nurturing approach. Just 16 teachers were selected as regional finalists from more than 4,300 teachers across 640 Goddard Schools nationwide.
“On behalf of the Goddard School system, I am honored to recognize the 2025 Teacher of the Year honorees for their unwavering commitment to delivering an educational experience that is second to none,” said Darin Harris, CEO of Goddard Systems LLC, in the announcement.
Fanjoy was named one of four finalists representing the Northeast region. Each finalist received a $1,000 cash award, professional development resources, and a framed certificate recognizing their achievement.
While Georgia preschool teacher Shunda Francis was ultimately named the national Teacher of the Year, Fanjoy’s recognition puts Worcester’s early education community on the map — and highlights the impact a single teacher can make on a child’s earliest years.
To learn more about the Goddard School of Worcester, visit goddardschool.com.
