Congratulations to Lishia Daniels, recently named 2026-27 Teacher of the Year by Southern Oregon Education Service District!
A fourth grade teacher at Kids Unlimited Academy, Daniels has been an elementary educator for six years, four of those with KUA, including a year at KUA’s former charter school in White City. KUA is different from other schools, Daniels said, for its “supports,” teachers, administration and extra programs that bring opportunity to kids who may not otherwise have them.
“I meet students where they’re at,” said Daniels, adding that her SOESD recognition was a complete surprise.
Confirming Daniels as an “outstanding teacher,” KUA Principal Lindsay Ochs spread the news of Daniels’ award Oct. 8 among fellow charter school staff.
“She is creative, dedicated beyond belief and strives to be the very best teacher, as well as a support system for all of her students,” said Ochs. “Students and families feel listened to and heard and appreciate the constant love and kindness she shows. We are very lucky to have Lishia here at KUA!”
KUA teacher Lishia Daniels gets in the spirit of 2025’s Jog-a-Thon.
SOESD thanked Daniels for “being an inspiring role model and for leading by example each day.” The award acknowledges teachers’ professionalism, leadership and commitment to excellence that make a lasting impact on students, schools and communities.
Daniels said she believes her empathy makes an impression on students and fellow KUA staff. She said she appreciates the community at KUA, including how diverse it is. She said she likes the challenge of working with a student population whose education is impacted by socio-economics.
