Metzger Receives Teacher of the Year Award

     On April 9, 2014 Talawanda math teacher Melissa Metzger was named Talawanda School District’s Teacher of the Year. Nominated in the Fall by high school principal Tom York for her excellence, Metzger became Talawanda’s new excellent educator representative. “I was so impressed with her method, her presence, her relationship with the kids,” said York. “She goes above and beyond expectations, attending school events she’s not required to. I also got a few letters from students and parents and I thought, ‘This is the evidence that this is her character. She doesn’t just do it because she has to.’”

One out of five teachers in the district nominated for the award, Metzger’s successful school year led her to be honored with the award. “I was elated, surprised and very humbled,” said Metzger. “It’s a very nice honor to be named Teacher of the Year.” This award further qualifies her  for consideration for the Ohio Teacher of the Year award.  This is a program to honor, promote and celebrate excellence in teaching and the teaching profession.

Metzger gave credit to her students of the 2013-2014 school year for her accomplishment. She said that this year has been the best year for her regarding the group of students she has. “I can spend my time this year improving my lessons,” she said.  “I don’t have to worry about low grades and students who don’t want to do work.”

Nominations for this award start from the respective Buildings Committee, who helps the principal with their decision to nominate the educator of their choice. From there, the principal, along with the committee, selects one to represent the building. From this point, the principal writes a 500 word recommendation about the teacher and submits it to the superintendent. The final step is with the district committee, which selects the educator that demonstrates excellence.

Started by Talawanda superintendent Kelly Spivey in 2012, the intent for the award was to appreciate the educators. “Many educators spend endless hours and it is often a thankless job,” said Spivey. “I find this is a nice way to say thank you for a job well done.”

This award is given to a different educator each year. Nominations are endless and teachers can be nominate d more than once for their excellence. According to Spivey, each nomination states the community’s appreciation for that individual who devotes their time into their career.  And, even though some do not win, Spivey said, a nomination is still a big honor wow gold.

Spivey plans to continue the award for years to come, saying, “These awards are a wonderful way to showcase our outstanding teaching staff, and we hope others join us for the celebration next year when we once again honor our excellent educators.”