Our 2023 Regional Winners

“We have the chance to build a society in which everyone belongs no matter their gender, race, ability, gender identification or sexual orientation. Schools can play a vital role in this work.”

“Every student has potential, every student has an important story, every student has a place in our society, and it is our duty to promote and advocate this.”

“My favorite part of teaching at a small school is getting to know every student individually and helping them reach their fullest potential.”

“I engage my students in real-life problems in their own environment and through worldly events. This helps students see outside themselves and fosters problem-solving skills for later in life.”

“Music cannot exist in a bubble it must be shared with friends, family and the community. This can be done when hard-working educators work together and create meaningful and memorable experiences.”

“Education is creating individuals who can approach life with an open mind, the ability to face and overcome obstacles, take on impossible challenges, establish morals, character and work ethic.”

“We have an obligation to our community, our state and our country, to provide an education that transcends the classroom.”

“I help my students find a positive balance between academics and mental health by accepting them as they are, and by doing my best to provide them with an engaging educational experience.”

“By focusing on problem solving, I am helping students to improve skills which can be applied to everyday life including perseverance, critical thinking, and communication of ideas.”

“There is an enduring message to our community members that cannot go unnoticed: learning is important, and we care about you and your continued learning.”

“I am a passionate, creative, intentional leader who finds the spark in every student by ensuring a community that fosters safety, individuality, radical empathy and belonging.”

“We need to make sure all voices are heard and all students are part of the decision-making, creating a space for students to speak. ”

“Students are encouraged to be free thinkers who solve and explain problems with creativity and clarity by creating an environment where they feel safe, have fun and learn intrinsically.”

“My engagement with students and their families shows them that I care about them beyond the classroom, they see that I am there for them whenever they need assistance.”

“Asking students to take risks, think critically, and tell their personal truths is not possible without a safe space where every student has a sense of belonging and a strong structure of support.”

“I believe that education is like dance. There are steps we learn, times when we fall, adaptations we make based on who is dancing, tradition, culture, community, and partnership.”