Macon YDC teacher named Georgia DJJ Teacher of the Year

Syntria Holmes-Jackson, a Monticello native, has taught social science at the Macon Youth Development Campus since 2007.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — A longtime teacher at the Macon Youth Development Campus has been named the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice’s 2026-27 Teacher of the Year.

According to a news release from DJJ, Syntria Holmes-Jackson is a Monticello native who teaches social science at the Bibb County facility.

“Syntria Holmes-Jackson demonstrates exceptional educational leadership,” DJJ Commissioner Shawanda Reynolds-Cobb said. “Her belief in the potential of every student speaks to her commitment to our mission to transform young lives and create lifelong learners. I am honored to name her the DJJ Teacher of the Year.”

Holmes-Jackson began working with DJJ as a recreation supervisor in 2005. She became a social science teacher at Macon YDC two years later and has remained in that role for almost two decades.

She also serves as DJJ’s assessment coordinator and chair of its Response to Intervention/Multi-Tiered Support System. Holmes-Jackson is a member of the department’s Policy Review Committee and has mentored other teachers for more than 10 years.

“I work with students who are facing significant challenges, so my goal is to create classrooms where every student feels seen, heard, and valued,” Holmes-Jackson said. “I am grateful for this recognition from the DJJ leadership team and my colleagues from across the agency. It is truly a testament that when an educator shows up fully, believes deeply, and teaches intentionally, we can have a profound impact on learning and create experiences that last a lifetime.”

Holmes-Jackson also holds coaching and teacher support and coaching endorsements through the Middle Georgia Regional Educational Service Agency.