Amy Lester, center, a kindergarten teacher at Hugh Goodwin elementary school, is congratulated by fellow teachers from her Hugh Goodwin "kindergarten team" after being named the El Dorado School District s Teacher of the Year. Lester was recognized during the district s opening session on Aug. 8. She delivered an inspirational speech to ESD staff, reminding teachers to "Be a leader. Be the Difference. Be the Light!" El Dorado teachers and students return to the classroom today for the 2023 - 2024 school year. Teachers, from left are Angela Margis, Allison Lockwood, Lester, Megan Koonce and Jana Moree.