Cincinnati Rotary Club Celebrates Excellence in Education with CPS Awards

In a heartfelt celebration of those who go above and beyond for students, the Rotary Club of Cincinnati honored five outstanding educators and staff members during its annual awards ceremony, celebrating excellence in education, leadership and service throughout Cincinnati Public Schools.

Sam Yates, principal of Woodward Career Technical High School, received the Administrator of the Year award. With more than 40 years of service to the district, Yates previously served as a teacher, band director and principal at both the elementary and high school levels. He was honored for his dedication to building a positive school culture and ensuring student success through access to career technical education. Yates also led district efforts in the state’s College, Career, Workforce and Military Readiness initiative and mentored peers while strengthening ties with community partners.

Belinda Carson, resource coordinator at Withrow University High School, was named Community Service of the Year recipient. Carson was recognized for her role as a change agent, going beyond traditional responsibilities to advocate for student access to essential services and opportunities. Her work addressed students’ daily needs while fostering long-term success in and beyond the classroom.

"I don’t do this work for recognition, I do it because our students deserve every opportunity to succeed,” said Belinda Carson, resource coordinator at Withrow University High School. “When we listen to what they need and respond with compassion and action, we can change lives.

Rachel Von Holle, an English as a Second Language teacher at Aiken High School, received the Humanitarian of the Year award. Von Holle’s work was celebrated for its emphasis on empathy and inclusivity. Known for her innovative teaching methods and deep cultural understanding, she created a classroom environment where students felt supported, motivated and valued.

Caitlin Halpin, a teacher at Western Hills University High School, was honored as Innovator of the Year. Halpin engaged students with creative, experiential learning techniques that transformed traditional instruction into interactive lessons. From role-playing as historical figures to simulating courtroom proceedings, her lessons inspired academic risk-taking and student confidence.

The Teacher of the Year award went to Angelle Greene-Edwards of Mt. Airy School. With 20 years of service in the district, Greene-Edwards was recognized for her ability to make learning meaningful and practical through hands-on projects. She also served as a mentor to her peers and an advocate for the teaching profession.

This year’s honorees demonstrated the talent and dedication within Cincinnati Public Schools. Through their leadership and service, they set a standard of excellence that reflects the core mission of CPS and the vital role educators play in shaping a better future.