Coach O'Neil WINS SPS Teacher of the Year

Danielle O'Neil was named 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year for Springfield Public Schools Friday, May 2, during Celebrate SPS, an event hosted by Foundation for Springfield Public Schools. 

O'Neil is currently a physical education teacher at Sherwood Elementary School. She started her career with SPS in 2016 and taught at Pershing Middle School until 2018. She then taught for a year at Delaware Elementary School from 2018-2019 before transitioning to her current role at Sherwood.

O'Neil shared, "I believe that movement is for everyone and PE should be a bridge between school, home and the larger community. I want my students to know that they are seen, valued and supported, and I want their families to feel that same sense of belonging. By fostering these connections, I aim to create a culture where all students -- regardless of background or ability -- see physical activity as an essential and enjoyable part of life."

Four additional finalists were also celebrated during the event: Amanda Brown, Sunshine Elementary, third grade teacher; Rachelle Peak, Launch Virtual Learning, communication arts teacher; Tanner Schmidt, Jeffries Elementary, second grade teacher; and Heidi Stagner, Field Elementary, art teacher.

O'Neil will continue on to compete in the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s regional competition. Winners at the regional level will advance to the Missouri State Teacher of the Year competition.