This past week, Jerren Beasley, a 9th-grade algebra 1 teacher, received the 2025 ExCEL award. Excel is a recognition program that honors students and educators who demonstrate excellence in various fields. JCPS, in collaboration with WHAS11, recognizes teachers for their excellence in the classroom and their achievements in engagement, education, leadership, and professional success. Mr. Beasley has made a lasting impact on his students, families, and other educators. He properly conveyed these skills and became a 2025 Excel winner.
At the event, various speakers shared fond memories and applauded Mr. Beasley for his accomplishments. The speakers include Dr. Neuss, Principal of Ballard, Dr. Polio, Aidan–Mr. Beasley’s student, Grace McKenna from WHAS11, and Maddie Shephard, the JCTA president. After Mr. Beasley accepted the Excel award, he was surprised with a $1,000 check from Miracle Playground.
After the ceremony, Between the Lines correspondent, Easha Heellage, asked Mr. Beasley questions about his opinion of the ceremony and a reflection that helped him achieve the award.
“What steps do you reflect on that have caused you to make it this far and win this award, and to better your teaching as a math teacher to freshman?” Easha Heellage asks, “Every day. I take steps to be a better teacher for every student. I strive to perfect my craft and think of ways I can have a larger impact in more spaces than just my classroom. I believe this allows me to improve as a freshman math teacher because I am able to tie in knowledge of my students from their communities.” Mr. Beasley’s students heavily adore him, according to many, they admire his teachings and how he deeply cares for them, which they believe should be in every teacher.
When asked “What advice would you give to new teachers?” Mr. Beasley responded with, “I would give all teachers — not just new teachers — the advice to treat every day as a new day, and to take nothing personally (or at least try not to). Whether teachers realize it or not, they only have one year with students to try and bring about the change they want to see.”
“Are there any past teachers or figures in your life who have shaped you into who you are today?”
“I think of many teachers who were there for me; Ms. Judy comes to mind in particular. I was terrible in her class — completely a menace — and every day she treated me with love and kindness. I think she understood that I was more than my behavior, and while she didn’t make excuses for it, she gave me what I needed to be successful every day.”
“Are final thanks or final words you’d like to share?”
“In a world of hate, comparison, and self-doubt, I want all of my students to know that they matter. It doesn’t matter what anyone else says about you — even yourself — you matter. Be who you are unapologetically, as long as you do no harm to yourself or others. “
Mr. Beasley is a beloved math teacher and human, his teachings and his kind heart will continue to make an impact on future students who shall remember him throughout their high school career and past that even.