We had the good fortune of connecting with Daisha Taylor, Ed. S. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daisha, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am deeply inspired by student achievement. Throughout my teaching career, my primary focus has been on implementing and incorporating strategies that boost student performance. Witnessing students succeed and reach their full potential is incredibly motivating for me. This drive to enhance student achievement pushes me to be creative and innovative in my classroom approaches, as well as a lifelong learner. When students overcome challenges and thrive, it validates the hard work and dedication I put into teaching. It’s an emotional reward that brings me immense joy and pride. Knowing that my efforts have a positive impact on students’ lives reinforces my sense of purpose and commitment to my career. It’s disheartening to see students struggling to meet grade-level expectations, and this challenge fuels my passion to find new and effective methods to support and uplift them.

Student success not only inspires me but also motivates me to continuously improve and seek out new strategies to enhance learning. Seeing my students thrive is what truly inspires me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In 2009, I took a leap of faith, leaving behind Detroit, Michigan, and embarking on a new chapter in Riverdale, Georgia, with nothing but my daughter and our clothes. Uncertain of what to expect, I sought a fresh start and a better environment for my child. Landing a job as a lead pre-K teacher on the spot was just the beginning.

Over the years, my journey in education has been anything but easy. From teaching middle school math and science to discovering my true passion in elementary education in 2014, each step presented its challenges. What sets me apart is my commitment to innovation and student achievement. I’ve always believed in making learning engaging—whether through creating songs to aid in learning or initiating my parent math academy to empower families with essential strategies.

One of my proudest moments was seeing struggling students grasp difficult concepts through the songs I created. It showed me the power of creativity in education and reaffirmed my dedication to finding new ways to inspire learning.

Through dark times and obstacles, I’ve persevered by always remembering my purpose. Every day, I strived to make learning exciting for both myself and my students, while ensuring parents felt supported and involved in their children’s education.

Along this path, I’ve learned many lessons about resilience and the power of thinking outside the box. My journey culminated unexpectedly in becoming a 2025 Georgia Teacher of the Year finalist—an achievement that I never imagined possible. It’s a testament that with determination and a steadfast belief in oneself, anything can be achieved.

My story is a reminder to never give up on yourself and to persevere through every challenge, inspiring others along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Personally, I love to eat, shop, and have fun. If my best friend visited Atlanta for a week, I’d ensure they experience a rich mix of local flavors, cultural landmarks, and outdoor beauty. After picking them up from the airport, we would head down the street for some seafood and grits at Nouveau or Southern barbecue at Hattie Marie’s. Next, we would hit the Atlanta Beltline and probably rent scooters to ride along the trail. We would shop at Ponce City Market and eat at Bellina’s for some authentic Italian pasta.

Throughout the week, we’d dive into downtown with a visit to the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and ride the Ferris wheel at Centennial Park. One of our days would include visits to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the Atlanta History Center, and/or the High Museum of Art. We’d venture beyond the city limits for a day trip to Stone Mountain Park. We’d hike to the top or take the Sky ride for a scenic ride. After a picnic lunch, we’d take pictures and explore the Stone Mountain Carving. We would spend a day shopping at Lenox Square or Phipps Plaza, find a nice place in Buckhead for a massage, and end the day with a nice dinner. Another day would include a couple hours at Painting with a Twist to get in touch with our artistic side and later visit Andretti’s for a race around the tracks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There is no way I would be where I am without the love, support, mentorship, and encouragement of several people who have walked with me on this educational journey. First and foremost, I thank God for allowing me to fulfill His calling. A special shout out to my daughter, Dayona; being your mom and role model has been a constant source of strength for me… I love you.

I would like to shout out every single student that I have taught over the years for pushing me to persevere and inspiring me to be a better teacher every day. Shout out to Mrs. Anderson for encouraging me to be my best self and always offering invaluable advice. To my CSE family, thank you for selecting me to represent our school as Teacher of the Year, and to CCPS for choosing me to represent our district. Shout out to the Georgia Department of Education staff and the Georgia Teacher of the Year committee for helping me achieve a dream I never imagined. Shout out to my nine wonderful 2025 GaTOTY co-finalists – you all are amazing! Lastly, shout out to everyone who has been instrumental to my success in any way. My heart is full!

Instagram: Daisha.Taylor2009

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