08/20/2026
At St. Edmund’s Academy, we believe that high quality teachers make the most significant difference in a child’s education. To support our commitment to recruiting, recognizing, supporting, and retaining, a diverse and extraordinary faculty who care deeply for children and offer a uniquely St. Edmund’s Academy learning experience, the school has established The St. Edmund’s Academy Teacher Award through the generosity of long-time friends and supporters of our school.
The Award annually recognizes teachers who positively uplift the school community through their demonstration of Core Values and exemplification of the culture of teaching excellence. Awardees will have a dedication to the social-emotional and cognitive growth of children and serve as a model for the entire school community. Given at the beginning of the school year to acknowledge the commitment of returning faculty, this award both recognizes the excellence in the work they’ve done and their dedication to the work ahead.
For the 2026 Teacher Award, we are honored and proud to recognize Jerry May.
Jerry May brings unwavering commitment and an unmistakable warmth to St. Edmund's Academy, where for twelve years he has shaped the hearts and minds of Upper School students as a History teacher and 8th Grade Advisor. He is an exemplar of values-based education, bringing deep subject matter expertise and open-mindedness into every classroom discussion. Middle schoolers are not always an easy audience, but Jerry meets them exactly where they are, tackling an unpredictable age with grace, humor, and compassion, earning a level of mutual respect that few can match. He knows every student for exactly who they are, and that genuine care is felt by everyone lucky enough to pass through his classroom.
Mr. May has developed a curriculum that challenges students to understand their own reasoning and stand firm in their beliefs. He has reinvigorated the study of history in the upper grades through close readings of primary sources, frequent analytical discussions, and the pursuit of critical thinking through writing. Mr. May has also exemplified the role of an advisor, always there to guide students and push them toward their best. He has contributed greatly to the formation of students with high standards and accountability through his lunch reflections, where he helps students understand their choices and consider opportunities to positively move forward.
Mr. May pours his heart into every person and into everything he does at SEA. He is always the first to volunteer to staff an extra event, the first to take on new responsibilities, and the first to check on a colleague in need. Whether he is planning an outing to a baseball game, fully embracing every theme during Spirit Week, or leading students through New York City with energy and historical precision, Jerry can always be counted on to show up as his full self, and to inspire others to do the same.
For these and all his other positive qualities, we proudly recognize Jerry May as the 2026 recipient of the St. Edmund’s Academy Teacher Award.
