Position: History Teacher
School: DELTA High School
School District: Denver Public Schools
City, State: Denver, CO
Janet Damon was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Damon exemplifies the qualities of a LifeChanger through her transformative teaching practices, unwavering dedication to student-centered learning, and profound impact on her community.
With over 25 years of service in DPS, Ms. Damon has worn many hats, including history teacher, literacy interventionist, K-12 librarian, and trainer. Her diverse roles reflect her commitment to education and her ability to adapt and innovate to meet her students' needs. Ms. Damon fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills in her current role by engaging her students with real-world issues such as homelessness, gun violence, racism, and health disparities. Her classroom serves as a space for inquiry, research, and collaboration, empowering students to explore solutions to these pressing challenges.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Damon's impact resonates throughout the community. She co-founded Afros and Books, a literacy and empowerment initiative that has provided over 1,000 books to underserved youth for summer reading. Janet also organizes outdoor activities for families, such as hiking, kayaking, and birding, encouraging a holistic approach to education that integrates physical and mental well-being with literacy.
Ms. Damon's outstanding contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2024 Extraordinary Teacher Award, the 2023 African Americans Who Are Making a Difference Award, and the 2022 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award. Her leadership and vision have also been recognized through fellowships with Facing History and Fund for Teachers.
A lifelong learner, Ms. Damon holds a bachelor's degree from Metropolitan State University, a master's in library and information science from the University of Denver, and an educational specialist degree in leadership from the University of Colorado at Denver. Her dedication to professional growth mirrors her commitment to helping her students succeed.
As the 2025 Colorado Teacher of the Year, Ms. Damon will represent educators across the state, advocating for the profession and inspiring others. She will join the Colorado Education Commissioner's Teacher Cabinet and participate in the National Teacher of the Year Program.
Ms. Damon's ability to integrate inquiry-based learning, digital storytelling, and culturally sustaining practices sets her apart as an educator who deeply understands and values her students' experiences. Her superintendent, Alex Marrero, aptly describes her as an innovator whose students leave her classroom better prepared for the future.
With her dedication, creativity, and vision, Ms. Damon is more than an exceptional educator - she is a LifeChanger, shaping the lives of her students and leaving a lasting legacy in her community.