Recognizing Bermuda's Best Educators for 2025: Celebrating Excellence and Innovation The Bermuda Education Network (BEN), in collaboration with Allied World, has just revealed the ten distinguished finalists for the 2025 Teaching Awards. These educators—Kelly Massa, Sara Westhead, Denika Wade, Zola French Ray, Terry Henry, Suzette Cheeseman, Stephanie Hughes, Shayla Morton, Karen Trott, and Tabathia Roberts—are being celebrated for their remarkable contributions across Bermuda’s public schools. But here’s where it gets controversial: What truly defines excellence in teaching? Is it test scores, innovation, or the ability to inspire? This selection might provoke some debate.
A representative from BEN shared, “We are thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 Teaching Awards, chosen from nominations by school leaders, fellow teachers, parents, and students island-wide. These finalists exemplify outstanding instruction, unwavering student support, dedication to inclusion, and creativity in their teaching approaches.” In other words, their strengths span far beyond just academic results—they shape the school culture and ensure every child can succeed.
Here are the educators recognized as 2025 finalists:
- Kelly Massa – Primary 2 Teacher, Somerset Primary
- Sara Westhead – Digital Literacy and IGCSE English Teacher, Whitney Institute
- Denika Wade – Social Studies Teacher, Whitney Institute
- Zola French Ray – ASD Class Teacher, West Pembroke Primary
- Terry Henry – Music Teacher, Northlands Primary & Paget Primary
- Suzette Cheeseman – Deputy Principal & Reading Teacher, St. David’s Primary
- Stephanie Hughes – Reading Teacher, West End Primary
- Shayla Morton – Primary 5 Teacher, Francis Patton Primary
- Karen Trott – Learning Support Teacher, Purvis Primary
- Tabathia Roberts – Primary 1 & 2 Teacher, East End Primary
The visual lineup includes Sara Westhead, Zola French Ray, Suzette Cheeseman, Karen Trott, Denika Wade, Shayla Morton, Kelly Massa, Terry Henry, and Tabathia Roberts. Not pictured is Stephanie Hughes.
Latoya Pearman, chairperson of the selection committee, explains, “These finalists stood out because they cultivate inclusive classrooms with high expectations, prioritize holistic student growth, and lead within their school communities. Many have played key roles in boosting literacy, enhancing school environments, and introducing innovative teaching strategies that uplift their colleagues and students alike.” This highlights a shift in how success in teaching is viewed—not just by individual achievement but by community impact.
Colm Singleton, Head of Allied World Bermuda, offered praise, stating, “Effective teachers don’t just teach facts—they build confidence and essential life skills that shape their students’ futures. Allied World is honored to support the BEN Teaching Awards and wishes all finalists the very best.” Their support underscores the importance of recognizing and investing in educators.
A spokesperson added, “These finalists will be celebrated at a special ceremony on January 23rd, 2026, where the overall winner will be revealed. This event will also showcase inspiring examples of impactful teaching and honor the wider contributions of Bermuda’s dedicated education community.” It’s a moment to reflect on how educators’ dedication shapes the island’s future.
This announcement invites a deeper conversation: What qualities should Bermuda—and any community—value most in its teachers? Is innovation more important than tradition? Should awards focus on measurable outcomes or the less tangible, yet equally vital, impact on student well-being and school culture? Share your thoughts and join the discussion about what makes a truly outstanding teacher!
