Community members and parents showed 9-R staff and teachers the love this year by submitting 400 nominations for 184 candidates in the Durango Education Foundation’s 2016 Educators of the Year initiative.
The annual event, which also serves as an employee appreciation celebration, was held at Murphy Morehart Regional Auto Center on Thursday.
Durango High School chemistry teacher Ann Tidwell was praised for going “extraordinary lengths” to help students understand a difficult subject.
“One teacher said that Ms. Tidwell’s classes are considered ‘must-takes’ by many students,” said Elizabeth Testa, the executive director of the Durango Education Foundation.
Barbara Wynne, a Miller Middle School science teacher and science fair adviser, was cited for encouraging scientific curiosity in her students. Three grade school teachers received accolades.
Needham Elementary School teacher Kimi Hanson was singled out for inspiring her fellow teachers and making students feel safe, cared for and motivated to succeed.
“Throughout the school years, children often spend more time with their teachers than their parents,” said Brady Rowland, whose three daughters have all been in Hanson’s class.
“For our daughters, she was a notable influence and someone we felt entirely confident entrusting our daughters to.”
Needham kindergarten teacher Gina Preszler’s nomination credited her for giving students a great start in school and sending them to first grade excited to continue their studies.
And Animas Valley Elementary School teacher Alison Layman is considered a team leader who brings fresh ideas to her fellow teachers.
Three staff members were also recognized.
Jennifer Latham at Needham is considered an “essential teammate” to classroom teachers, and Max Lujan at Florida Mesa Elementary School takes the time to show interest in each individual student.
Laura Breunig works at Escalante Middle School to support students with special needs.
“She recognizes students’ strengths as well as their social and emotional well-being,” Testa said.
The honorees each received a plaque courtesy of Jewelry Works, a monetary prize from the foundation, gift cards to Maria’s Bookshop and Durango Joe’s, beer coupons from Carver Brewing Co., and a gift certificate to the Ore House.
Director of Technology Zach Mather and two members of his staff, Chris Lake and Brian Schoff, were also recognized for keeping the Durango 9-R digital world functioning.
“Each received a gift certificate from Durango Joe’s,” Testa said, “to help them stay alert during their long working hours.”
abutler@durangoherald.com
