Human Resources

Students from the University of North Florida are committing to become teachers with Duval County Public Schools through the Jacksonville Teacher Residency (JTR), a year-long AmeriCorps program.

JTR is a partnership between Duval County Public Schools and the University of North Florida that gives aspiring educators the opportunity to gain hands-on classroom experience while working alongside highly qualified DCPS mentor teachers.

Throughout the year, residents build the skills and confidence needed to lead their own classrooms and make a lasting impact on students across Jacksonville.

Duval County Public Schools is proud to help develop the next generation of educators and strengthen classrooms across our community.

Learn more about careers with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

7 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

At Englewood High, Spanish for Spanish Speakers is showing students that language is more than grammar it’s identity.

In Señora Martin’s classroom, heritage speakers strengthen their Spanish while building confidence in who they are. Culture isn’t set aside. It’s celebrated.

“I love my job. I love my kids. I love what I do.”

Students arrive early. They stay through lunch. They choose this space because it feels like familia.

For many, mastering English is a mountain. Here, they climb it together — supported, encouraged, and proud of where they come from.

Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

7 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

A female student with braided hair and a pink bow concentrates while reading and writing at her desk in a classroom.

A male student wearing a gray hoodie and a Honduras lanyard looks down as he focuses on his classwork.

Señora Martin stands in front of black lockers, speaking to her class while wearing an Englewood High School Rams polo and ID badge.

A student with short red hair studies an open textbook at a wooden desk while holding a pencil.

A female student in a black hoodie reads intently from an open book at her desk, with classroom supplies nearby.

A male student in a black polo leans over his desk, concentrating on his assignment with a yellow potted plant in the background.

Señora Martin gestures with her hands while teaching, standing confidently in front of classroom lockers at Englewood High School.

Rookie Counselor of the Month

Normandy Village Elementary School proudly recognizes Mrs. Dankeshia Ivester for her outstanding work supporting students and families. Through individual counseling sessions, collaboration with teachers and administration, and consistent family engagement through MTSS and AIT meetings, she is helping build a strong, supportive school community.

A graduate of the University of North Florida, Mrs. Ivester continues to make a meaningful impact in her first year. Duval County Public Schools celebrates the dedication and leadership she brings to students each day.

Interested in joining Team Duval?
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

7 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Mrs. Dankeshia Ivester stands with colleagues while holding her Rookie Counselor of the Month certificate in front of a blue stage curtain with balloons in the background.

Mrs. Dankeshia Ivester poses with school and district staff beside a “Rookie Works Here” banner, holding a recognition sign during a celebration at Normandy Village Elementary School.

Mrs. Dankeshia Ivester smiles while holding a large congratulatory poster, surrounded by students and staff during her Rookie Counselor of the Month recognition presentation.

Mrs. Dankeshia Ivester stands with administrators and staff on a stage next to a “Rookie Works Here” banner while holding her award sign and certificate.

At Crown Point Elementary School, the ESOL program is helping students discover that learning English is more than vocabulary — it’s belonging.

With nearly half of the school’s 750 students learning English as a second language, classrooms are built around confidence, culture, and compassion.

“It is a tough journey… but with love, compassion, and showing these kids that they belong here — they’re part of us. They’re our family now.”

From kindergarten through fifth grade, students grow not just in language skills, but in identity and pride. Accents are celebrated. Cultures are honored. Confidence rises.

Through support and encouragement, students learn that every language tells a story — and every student belongs.

Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

7 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

A teacher stands beside a student desk inside a classroom, reviewing work while colorful learning materials hang on the wall behind her.

A smiling elementary student looks directly at the camera inside a classroom setting.

An elementary student with braided hair looks toward the camera with a neutral expression inside a classroom.

A smiling student rests their chin on folded arms while sitting at a classroom desk.

An elementary student smiles while working at a desk inside a classroom.

A student focuses on schoolwork at a desk with classroom materials in the background.

A smiling elementary student wearing a green shirt looks at the camera inside a classroom.

Three elementary students sit on the classroom floor working together on a hands-on learning activity with wooden puzzle pieces spread out in front of them.

At Fort Caroline Elementary School, Benton Jones is helping students discover that math is more than numbers — it’s resilience.

“As a kid, I remember looking at my hands and thinking… out of all the millions and billions of people in the world — how is it me that’s different?” said Jones.

Born with only a pinky finger on his right hand, he understands what it means to overcome doubt. In his classroom, students learn that challenges don’t define them — growth does.

Through encouragement and belief, Jones helps students build confidence that extends far beyond math.

Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Benton Jones looks toward a student while seated in his classroom at Fort Caroline Elementary School, green shelves and classroom materials visible behind him.

A student rests her head on her hand while concentrating on a math assignment during Benton Jones’ class at Fort Caroline Elementary School.

A student leans forward with focused expression while working on a math problem in Benton Jones’ classroom.

A student concentrates on her math worksheet, hand partially covering her mouth as she thinks during class with Benton Jones.

Benton Jones works one-on-one with two students at a classroom table, reviewing math problems together at Fort Caroline Elementary School.

A student holds a pencil upright while thinking through a math problem in Benton Jones’ classroom.

A student carefully writes math calculations in her workbook during instruction with Benton Jones.

Benton Jones stands smiling with four students in his classroom at Fort Caroline Elementary School, posing together in front of a math display wall.

A close-up shows Benton Jones writing a math equation and grid diagram on a small whiteboard during instruction.

At John E. Ford PK-8 Montessori, Erika Cunamay is helping students discover that learning can feel like play. In her pre-primary Montessori classroom, children build independence, confidence, and curiosity through hands-on exploration and collaboration.

Teaching students from ages three through kindergarten allows Cunamay to build strong relationships with families and watch her students grow year after year.

“My first three-year-old class is now in college,” said Erika Cunamay.

After 13 years with Duval County Public Schools, Cunamay says giving back to the community where she grew up and went to school makes her work even more meaningful.

Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Young Montessori student smiling while working with classroom materials at a table.

Student in a pink shirt smiling while holding Montessori learning materials in the classroom.

Young student seated at a table, smiling during Montessori classroom activity.

Student in a red shirt smiling during hands-on classroom learning.

Erika Cunaamay assisting a young student with Montessori learning materials at a classroom table.

Young student capturing a photo or exploring materials during classroom activity.

Students working together at a classroom table using Montessori materials.

Erika Cunamay guiding a student during a hands-on Montessori lesson.

Teacher Erika Cunamay and classroom staff member sit with pre-primary Montessori students gathered on a classroom rug, smiling together at John E. Ford PK-8 Montessori.

At Paxon High School, Spanish teacher Claudia Elliott is helping students build confidence through language and connection. In her classroom, students learn that communication extends beyond vocabulary — it connects them to their community and the world around them.

“I love watching students realize they can actually communicate with someone in another language. That moment builds confidence they carry far beyond my classroom,” said Claudia Elliott.

For more than a decade, Elliott has been part of the Duval County Public Schools family, creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to grow and succeed.

Join Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Claudia Elliott teaching Spanish at the front of the classroom with her hand raised while speaking to students.

Student seated at a desk listening attentively during Claudia Elliott’s Spanish class.

Student wearing glasses looking toward Claudia Elliott during instruction.

Student smiling while listening during Spanish class at Paxon High School.

Student with long braids looking upward thoughtfully during a classroom lesson.

Student raising a hand to answer a question during Claudia Elliott’s Spanish class.

Close-up of a student writing notes with a pencil during Spanish instruction.

Claudia Elliott smiling and gesturing while teaching in front of colorful Spanish vocabulary posters.

At Fishweir Elementary, second-grade teacher Elizabeth Dent is creating a classroom where students feel confident, supported, and encouraged to explore new ideas. Through her thoughtful approach to teaching, she helps students develop not only academic skills, but also the belief that they can succeed.

Now in her seventh year with Duval County Public Schools, Elizabeth continues to grow alongside her students, bringing curiosity and dedication into every lesson. Her work reflects the district’s commitment to nurturing both educators and learners in an environment built on collaboration and care.

Educators like Elizabeth are the foundation of our schools. If you are interested in making a difference for students and building a meaningful career in education, consider joining Team Duval.

https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Elizabeth Dent works with a student at a classroom table during a learning activity.

A student wearing glasses sits at a desk inside Elizabeth Dent’s classroom.

Elizabeth Dent leans over to help a student with their work at a desk.

A student works quietly at a desk in Elizabeth Dent’s classroom.

A smiling student sits in Elizabeth Dent’s classroom with learning materials behind them.

Elizabeth Dent sits beside a student and listens as they talk in the classroom.

Elizabeth Dent sits at desk in classroom

This Black History Month, Duval County Public Schools proudly recognizes the Black educators who inspire, lead, and make a lasting impact on students across our district. Every day, these teachers, mentors, and staff members help create classrooms where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence help shape the future of Duval County, both inside and outside the classroom.

Interested in making that same impact? Join Team Duval and become part of a district that values educators and the difference they make.

https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Duval Public Schools honors Black History Month

Pinedale Elementary welcomed city leaders, community volunteers, and school leadership for the Real Men Read literacy event, where students and role models came together to celebrate the power of reading. Volunteers spent time sharing favorite stories, connecting with students, and modeling the joy of literacy in a fun, engaging environment.

Events like Real Men Read show what’s possible when a community rallies around learning — building confidence, strengthening relationships, and inspiring students to dream bigger.

Duval County Public Schools is always looking for people who want to make that kind of impact.
Join Team Duval at https://www.duvalschools.org/page/careers
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8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

A colorful Real Men Read graphic featuring illustrated books and bold lettering promoting literacy.

Several children’s books and reading materials laid out on a table, ready for students during the Real Men Read event.

A close-up of a children’s book opened on a table as part of the Real Men Read reading activity.

A community volunteer reads a book aloud to a group of students seated around a table during the Real Men Read literacy event.

A student sits at a desk listening attentively during a classroom reading session.

A student sits quietly at a desk, focused on the reading taking place during Real Men Read.

Love Grove Elementary has reached a major milestone for Duval County Public Schools with its designation as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School National Banner recipient.

This national recognition is awarded to schools that demonstrate excellence in creating an inclusive environment through Unified Sports, student leadership, and school-wide engagement. It reflects a sustained commitment to ensuring students of all abilities learn, grow, and succeed together.

At Love Grove, that work is led by educators and staff who believe every student belongs and every student has something to contribute. The banner serves as a symbol of the culture they have built — one rooted in respect, teamwork, and opportunity.

Duval County Public Schools is proud to celebrate the people behind this achievement and the impact they make every day across our schools.

Learn more about opportunities with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Love Grove Staff stand infront of the National Unified Champion School for Special Olympics.

Leadership at Duval County Public Schools shows up in the moments that bring a school community together.

At George Washington Carver Elementary School, Florida TaxWatch recognized Principal James with the Principal Leadership Award, presented by Bob Nave. The honor reflects her steady commitment to students and staff and the positive culture she continues to build at Carver.

The visit also created a meaningful moment for two students — twin scholars who were each awarded college scholarships — a reminder that success is even more powerful when it’s shared.

Learn more about opportunities with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Principal James stands with twin students and staff members on stage at George Washington Carver Elementary School during a Florida TaxWatch recognition event.

Principal James poses with twin students holding certificates as staff members stand beside them during a Florida TaxWatch visit at George Washington Carver Elementary School.

Florida TaxWatch representatives present the Principal Leadership Award to Principal James at George Washington Carver Elementary School.

At Duval County Public Schools, leadership is about more than managing a campus — it’s about opening doors and changing lives.

At William M. Raines High School, Principal Hall embodies that mission every day. Recently recognized by Florida TaxWatch with the Principal Leadership Award, his impact was felt most powerfully in a moment no one expected. In front of his school community, Principal Hall surprised student Owen with a two-year college scholarship — a life-changing gift that left his family overwhelmed and brought tears to his mother’s eyes.

This is what leadership looks like in Duval County Public Schools: compassion, opportunity, and a commitment to students that lasts far beyond graduation. For those ready to lead, teach, and make a lasting difference, Team Duval offers the chance to be part of something bigger.

Learn more about opportunities with Duval County Public Schools:

https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Principal Hall stands with student Owen and family members on stage as Owen holds a certificate during a Florida TaxWatch Principal Leadership Award ceremony.

Student Owen poses on stage holding a certificate awarded during the Florida TaxWatch Principal Leadership Awards.

Florida TaxWatch representative presents the Principal Leadership Award to Principal Hall on stage at William M. Raines High School.

At Duval County Public Schools, some classrooms open doors to more than a subject — they open doors to the world.

At Stanton College Preparatory School, Spanish teacher and World Language Department Chair Norma Crespo-Lowery has spent nearly 30 years creating that kind of experience for students. Her classroom is a place where language becomes confidence, culture becomes connection, and learning extends far beyond the bell schedule. Long after students graduate, many return with stories of using what they learned in college, travel, and careers — proof that her impact lasts well beyond high school.

This is what teaching with Duval County Public Schools looks like: meaningful relationships, lasting influence, and the opportunity to help students see what’s possible. If you’re passionate about your craft and ready to make a real difference, Team Duval is ready for you.

Learn more about teaching opportunities with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/page/careers

8 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

A student focuses on classwork as Norma Crespo-Lowery observes nearby, offering guidance and support in the classroom.

Spanish teacher Norma Crespo-Lowery works one-on-one with a student at a classroom table, reviewing written work during a lesson at Stanton College Preparatory School.

Norma Crespo-Lowery listens attentively while a student speaks, creating an engaged and supportive classroom environment.

Two students work together at a desk, smiling and collaborating on an assignment during Norma Crespo-Lowery’s Spanish class.

One student work together at a desk, smiling and collaborating on an assignment during Norma Crespo-Lowery’s Spanish class.

Davie Henderson is already making a strong impression in his first year at Crystal Springs Elementary. A fifth-grade teacher and former Duquesne University football player, Davie brings the same discipline, teamwork, and drive from the field into his classroom every day.

Since moving to Jacksonville four years ago and beginning his teaching career in August, Davie has quickly become known for showing up for students in meaningful ways—whether that’s working through math problems in class, greeting students in the hallway, or supporting them at weekend football games.

Teacher Development and Support Specialist Allyson Popp says Davie’s passion for teaching and commitment to constant growth set him apart, noting that he never stops seeking new ways to better serve his students.

Davie Henderson was named Duval County Public Schools’ Rookie Teacher of the Month for January, and his impact is just getting started.

Interested in starting your own journey in education? Join Team Duval and explore careers with Duval County Public Schools:
https://www.duvalschools.org/page/careers

9 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Davie Henderson, a fifth-grade teacher at Crystal Springs Elementary, stands in a classroom holding his Rookie Teacher of the Month certificate alongside Duval County Public Schools staff. A Rookie Teacher of the Month banner and football-themed posters are visible behind them as they smile for the photo.

Davie Henderson, a fifth-grade teacher at Crystal Springs Elementary, stands smiling in a classroom holding his Rookie Teacher of the Month certificate, with a Rookie Teacher of the Month banner and football-themed posters visible behind him.

At Duval County Public Schools, classrooms are becoming global — and students are better for it.

This year, 41 new international teachers from Jamaica, the Philippines, and Ghana are joining classrooms across the district, adding to a community of 365 international educators serving students from elementary school through high school.

They bring more than lessons and credentials. They bring culture, perspective, and lived experiences that help students see the world beyond their classroom walls — while meeting critical needs in schools across Duval County Public Schools.

Teaching here is about connection, opportunity, and impact — and if you’ve ever wanted to be part of something bigger, Team Duval is ready for you.

https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

9 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Smiling group of newly hired international teachers seated together during a Duval County Public Schools onboarding session.

Portrait of a new international teacher smiling while attending onboarding with Duval County Public Schools.

Portrait of a new international teacher seated indoors during onboarding with Duval County Public Schools.

Printed sign reading “TPG Onboarding” displayed on a table during an onboarding event for new international teachers with Duval County Public Schools.

At Duval County Public Schools’ Englewood High School, Daniel Reed is helping students find more than just rhythm — he’s helping them find their voice.

“The music is just a vehicle for change,” Daniel says. “It becomes a second voice for our students — and when it clicks, you can’t stop them.”

Through music, mentorship, and creativity, his band room is a place where students build confidence, connect with one another, and discover what they’re capable of.

If you’ve ever wanted to make that kind of impact, Team Duval is ready for you.
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

9 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

A student plays a hand drum during a music activity at Englewood High School.

Daniel Reed taps a hand drum while sitting with classmates during a music lesson.

A student taps a hand drum while sitting with classmates during a music lesson.

Some teachers teach lessons. Others teach students.

At Duval County Public Schools’ Paxon School for Advanced Studies, Kevin Smith’s classroom is built on curiosity, conversation, and big questions — not multiple-choice answers.

“This course has no correct answers,” Kevin says. “Two people who disagree can both be right.”

After four careers, teaching is where it finally clicked. With the support to try new ideas and administrators who truly have his back, Kevin has found a place where educators are trusted to do what they do best.

If you’ve ever wanted to teach this way — to guide students instead of just grading them — Team Duval is ready for you.

https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

10 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Kevin Smith walks down a classroom aisle at Paxon School for Advanced Studies.

Close-up of hands typing on a laptop during class instruction.

Kevin Smith stands at the front of his classroom speaking to students at Paxon School for Advanced Studies.

A classroom sign reads, “The future of the world is in this room.”

Yesterday’s Hiring Fair brought big energy — and Duval County Public Schools is still feeling it as our newest hires share their stories on camera.
Thank you to everyone who showed up ready to inspire, to lead, and to make a real difference for students across our district.

The smiles, the conversations, the excitement — and now the voices of those who signed on — all reminded us how many incredible people are ready to step into our schools and shine.
We look forward to welcoming this new talent into our Team Duval family.

If you missed the fair or you're feeling inspired, opportunities are always open.

Come join the A-team with Team Duval:
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

10 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Duval County Public Schools hosted a Job Fair at the Schultz Center.

The Schultz Center was full of energy today as candidates streamed in for the Duval County Public Schools Job Fair. From the moment doors opened, interviews were moving fast, teams were meeting new talent, and same-day offers were being made on the spot.

You could feel the excitement in every corner — people ready to make a difference, ready to step into our schools, and ready to join Team Duval. Paraprofessional and teacher candidates showed up prepared, confident, and committed, and we’re thrilled to welcome today’s new hires into classrooms across the district.

Events like this remind us how many passionate people want to support our students — and how strong our community truly is.

If you missed this session, we’re always hiring — and there’s always room for more great people to join the A-team with Team Duval.
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers

10 months ago, Duval County Public Schools HR

Job Fair at Schultz Center with new hires taking photos.