College of Education (COE)
From Teacher Candidates to Award-Winning Educators
Tuesday, 15 September 2026 - COE graduates Darcy Dawn Robinson and Ella Grace Decker receive Teacher of the Year honors at Campus School
Two 2024 graduates of the University of Memphis College of Education (COE) are already receiving recognition for their work in the classroom.
Darcy Dawn Robinson was named the 2025–26 Teacher Leader of the Year at Campus School,
while Ella Grace Decker was selected as the school’s 2025–26 Teacher of the Year. 
Their accomplishments reflect how classroom experience, faculty mentorship and preparation through COE help future educators develop the skills and confidence to serve their students and contribute to their school communities.
Robinson is a second-grade supervising teacher who teaches all subjects. Receiving recognition during her second year in the classroom carries additional meaning because she began her teaching career later in life.
“It is never too late to pursue your purpose and make a meaningful impact,” Robinson said.
Robinson credited her COE experience with preparing her for the classroom and opportunities to lead. She said the knowledge, mentorship and support she received as a teacher candidate continue to influence her work with students and colleagues.
Decker teaches fourth-grade English language arts and social studies at Campus School. She said the recognition is especially meaningful because of her connection to the school and its community.
“This recognition truly means the world to me, especially because of how much I love Campus School and the community I get to be a part of every day,” Decker said. “I am surrounded by incredible students, families, teachers and staff who constantly push me to grow and be a better educator.”
Decker’s connection to Campus School began while she was a COE student. She completed her student teaching in a third-grade English language arts classroom under supervising teacher Jess Moorhead. That experience helped shape her approach to teaching and ultimately led her to begin her career at the same school.
“The College of Education played such an important role in preparing me for where I am today,” Decker said. “That experience completely shaped the teacher I became and ultimately led me to begin my teaching career at the same school where I completed my student teaching.”
Decker earned her degree in Teaching All Learners, which provided a foundation in both elementary and special education. She said that preparation continues to influence how she meets the individual needs of her students.
Both Robinson and Decker credited Jennifer H. Bubrig, associate professor in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership, with supporting their development as teacher candidates. Bubrig teaches teacher preparation courses and supervises pre-residency and residency placements.
Robinson and Decker entered the classroom prepared to make an impact, and their early recognition reflects the strength of that preparation. Their success shows how COE graduates are applying what they learned to serve students, contribute to their schools and grow as educational leaders.
