2017 Excellence in Teaching Award Winners

“Dean Bryson may be one of the most creative teachers I have encountered. … He finds ways to make science meaningful for our students through engaging lessons and authentic real-world learning experiences. …”

“Mary deVille works tirelessly to create a challenging and nurturing environment for her students, built on belonging, mutual respect and community. … There is always a high level of student energy in her room because of her passion for math. …”

“Tonya Dunlap is the type of teacher who strives each day to bring a smile into a child’s life. … Ms. Dunlap’s instructional and content expertise in the classroom is exceptional among intervention specialists. …”

“Catherine Duplisea is an amazing teacher for students and an inspiration for teachers! Her kindergarten scholars are so excited to enter her classroom each morning. … Every child taught by her feels successful and well rounded. …”

“Kirsten Fischer is the teacher children clamor to have! Our scholars love coming to her classroom. … Ms. Fischer’s energy is contagious and her out-of-the-box ideas endless. …”

“Andrea Kitchen is an unassuming, fabulous kindergarten teacher. Her students learn through discovery, questioning, thinking and doing. … Students who excel are challenged to do more and students needing intervention are given explicit instruction to improve. …”

“Jason Levy is an inspiration! His dedication to our music department, our district and our students is obvious. … When Mr. Levy came to our school, the first thing he prioritized was instruments for students. Many of our students have earned trophies or received recognition for talent they never knew they had. …”

“Rita Mikita is a phenomenal teacher. She is so committed to the teaching practice and to our school’s specific model of innovation. … She has an incredible ability to engage all students to succeed. …”

“Alexis Pohlman is a teacher with outstanding instructional practices. She consistently teaches to the highest level and goes above and beyond to ensure her students succeed. … Ms. Pohlman’s lessons are student-centered and include an inquiry-based approach that makes students become mini-teachers themselves. …”

“Jordan Seigler is known to our students as the “mad scientist.” Her passion for science comes naturally to her, which enables her to engage all types of learners. … Ms. Seigler’s lessons are always engaging: you will frequently find students building robots, growing butterflies and making engineering contraptions for real life applications. …”