Desert Wind Educator Honored with National Education Leadership Award

Desert Wind Middle School teacher Davina Lyons has been honored as one of ten recipients of the 2025 Teacher Leader Impact Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes educators committed to collaborative professional development, lifelong learning, and enhancing teaching practices.

Lyons stood out from hundreds of applicants, praised for her “comprehensive approach to educational leadership.” Christine Lynch of KEH Communications highlighted her numerous impactful initiatives as a key factor in the selection.

One significant achievement that contributed to this recognition is Lyons’s “Team Resilience” initiative. This program actively engages students in applying their academic studies to real-world situations.

Beyond her classroom, Lyons established Rising Resilience, a platform designed to help educators, parents, and students develop resilience skills, amplifying her influence in the educational community.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the 2025 Teacher Leader Impact Award,” Lyons remarked in a recent news release. “This recognition affirms the heart I put into leading with purpose and uplifting both students and colleagues.” She emphasized her daily commitment to inspiring resilience, growth, and connection.

In addition to the honor, Lyons received a $100 gift card, Edthena branded merchandise, and a subscription to “AI Coach,” a tool aimed at assisting educators in curriculum development.

Lyons joined the Maricopa Unified School District in 2023, transitioning from her role at Sacaton Elementary via Mesa Schools, where she taught English, according to her LinkedIn profile.

Chosen through a competitive national review process conducted by a panel from Edthena, Lyons was the only educator from Arizona selected for this notable award.