Farmington Public Schools has named Diane Kawesa, an alumnus of Rochester Christian University, as its 2025-2026 Early Childhood Teacher of the Year for her dedication to young learners and their families.
Kawesa has taught at Farmington Early Childhood Center since 2017, and families who nominated her said she has a “gift for making children feel loved, supported and excited to learn, especially during a critical stage of early development.”
She was recognized for her “kindness, joy, patience, and the safe, welcoming classroom environment she creates for every child.” One parent shared, “Ms. Diane is so kind, joyful and patient. I know my daughter is in the best possible hands. She makes kids excited to learn. She makes them feel safe and loved, and they truly enjoy coming to school.”
Kawesa earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood studies from RCU in 2016. Jeanne Schulte, program chair, said, “The recognition celebrates Kawesa’s contributions to early childhood education and reflects the meaningful impact RCU graduates have in their professions and communities. We’re very proud of her!”
RCU’s early childhood program is designed to help students complete their bachelor’s degree and continue to work in the early childhood field. Courses cover child development and learning, family education and diversity issues, among others. Several of the courses require observation hours, providing experience in the preschool setting.
- Find out more about Kawesa’s honor.
- Discover more about RCU’s early childhood program.
- Contact Jeanne Schulte at jschulte@rcu.edu.
