03/10/2026
Please join us in congratulating Woodlyn Academy teacher Katrina Strand for being named a Terry Lynn Lokoff Teacher of the Year Award winner presented by First Up. Out of more than 300 nominations, Katrina was selected as one of just 15 educators across the region to receive this prestigious recognition.
The award is named in honor of Terri Lynne Lokoff, a passionate early childhood advocate whose legacy continues through the Terri Lynne Lokoff Child Care Foundation. The foundation works to elevate the early childhood profession by recognizing outstanding educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact in the lives of young children. Being selected for this award places Katrina among some of the most respected early childhood professionals in the region and highlights the critical importance of high quality early learning.
Katrina has been a dedicated member of the Woodlyn Academy family since 2018, and throughout her tenure she has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in early childhood education. Her classroom reflects the patience, intentional instruction, and nurturing care that help young children build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love for learning.
While continuing her work with our students, Katrina recently earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and obtained her Montessori Teacher Certification, further strengthening the high quality instruction she brings to the classroom each day. Her dedication to professional growth is a powerful example of what it means to be a lifelong learner and an educator who truly invests in her craft.
This recognition is not only a testament to Katrina’s talent and heart for children, but also a reflection of the standard of excellence we strive for across the Woodlyn Academy Organization. Educators like Katrina help bring our mission to life every day by providing the kind of high quality early education that changes life trajectories.
Katrina, thank you for knowing the way, going the way, and showing the way for your students, your colleagues, and the families we serve.
We are incredibly proud of you.