The Little Rock School District is proud to announce that Victoria Golden, a third-grade English Language Arts teacher at Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy and LRSD’s 2025 Teacher of the Year, has been selected as one of the Top 15 Finalists for Arkansas Teacher of the Year.
This recognition, announced by the Arkansas Department of Education, celebrates educators across the state who exemplify outstanding teaching, leadership, and dedication to student success. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 award provided by the Walton Family Foundation and will be honored during a special ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion on July 28.
Golden’s passion for education, creative teaching style, and deep care for her students have made her a standout educator in the Little Rock School District. Her commitment to student growth and excellence continues to earn recognition at every level.
As a Top 15 Finalist, Ms. Golden remains in the running to become the 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year—a title that comes with the opportunity to represent Arkansas in the National Teacher of the Year competition. The state’s semifinalists will be announced later this summer, with the overall Arkansas Teacher of the Year named in the fall.
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Golden and cheering her on as she continues this exciting journey!