Geneva City School District named West Street School instructional coach Jamie Wagner its inaugural Educator of the Year, recognizing more than two decades of work with students and teachers across the district.
Wagner received the honor during the district's Sept. 2 Opening Day celebration. The award, sponsored by Finger Lakes Credit Union, includes a $1,000 prize.
Superintendent Bo Wright said Wagner has strengthened teaching and learning while coaching and mentoring educators and helping shape the district's culture. He said her influence is reflected in student outcomes as well as the teachers she supports.
Two decades of teaching and literacy work
Wagner first worked in Geneva as a student teacher at North Street School in 2004 and joined the district as an elementary teacher that August. During her career, she has also served as an academic intervention services teacher, behavior coach and personalized learning coach.
In her current role at West Street School, Wagner is a district leader in literacy instruction. Her work includes supporting research-based literacy practices, training teachers through LETRS, contributing to curriculum development and mentoring educators.
A Geneva parent and community member nominated Wagner after seeing the effect of her work on the nominator's children as they learned to read. The nomination described Wagner as an educator who listens to teachers, parents and students, recognizes others' strengths and advocates for students.
West Street School Principal Tricia Budgar described Wagner as a trusted source of support whose influence extends across the district. Budgar cited Wagner's literacy leadership, professional-learning work, support for new teachers and role in curriculum development.
New award began this spring
The district launched the Educator of the Year program in spring 2026 and invited staff, families and community members to submit nominations. Candidates were evaluated on their impact on students, contributions to the school community and commitment beyond regular expectations.
Nominations went through a semi-blind committee review before supervisors of the finalists submitted formal recommendations. The district then selected the recipient.
Finger Lakes Credit Union funds the award and also sponsors Geneva's eight annual Panther Awards. Credit union President and CEO Bob McFadden presented Wagner with the $1,000 award during the Opening Day program.
McFadden said supporting educators reflects the institution's roots: Geneva City School District employees founded the credit union nearly 60 years ago. Wright said Wagner's behind-the-scenes work ultimately reaches classrooms and students throughout the district.
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