Emerald Ridge Multilingual Teacher Earns 2025 Washington Educator Award

Congratulations to Emerald Ridge High School (ERHS) teacher Jill Canton for being named the 2025 Educator of the Year by a community civic-organization — a recognition of their outstanding impact in multilingual education and service to students.

Jill's Background

Cantone began her teaching career in Chattanooga, Tennessee after graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She later moved to Washington and has served students in the Puyallup School District (PSD) since 1995.

Over the course of her career, she has taught resource classes in both Tennessee and Puyallup before earning a master’s degree from City University of Seattle in English as a Second Language and her National Board Certification in Secondary Multi-Language Learning. Today, she teaches Multilingual (ML) Courses at Emerald Ridge High School.

Winning the Award

When Cantone received the news that she won the award, she described it as an emotional and humbling moment.

"I am still in shock and moved to tears," Cantone said. "After learning more about the history of this award, I am honored beyond words. I deeply appreciate those who considered submitting my name and all they do for our school."

Teaching Philosophy

According to Cantone, creating an inclusive, welcoming classroom rooted in linguistic and cultural pride is essential.

"My goal is to encourage students to embrace their differences and continue using their home language while building English skills," Cantone said. "We focus on respecting all cultures, learning from one another, and appreciating the unique diversity represented in our class."

Cantone's classes provide multilingual learners with opportunities to share their talents, cultural identities, and life experiences. Students often participate in clubs, cultural events, and student-led panels to help peers and staff better understand the challenges of learning a new language and adapting to life in a new country.

"When I look at my ML students, I always see true resilience," she said. "We incorporate home languages into vocabulary activities, host ‘share your culture’ days, and compare life in the United States with students’ home countries. These activities strengthen English skills, build confidence, and help students feel connected here at ERHS."

Looking Ahead

Cantone hopes this award shines a brighter light on the ML program and the dedicated educators who support students across the district.

"My hope is that this award highlights the outstanding work of our ML teachers," Cantone said. "Our (ML) team pours our hearts into supporting students academically and emotionally. I want to pay it forward by encouraging others to earn their ML/English-as-a-second-language (ESL) endorsement. It truly is the best job in the world."