Local Teacher Named Finalist for Arkansas Teacher of the Year

October 27th, 2008 by Monticello Schools

By Bentley Brodnax, 8th grade student at MMS

Monticello Middle School teacher Jennifer Touchstone has been selected to be one of the regional finalists for the 2008-09 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. The 8th grade science teacher at MMS is now eligible to receive the $1,000 cash reward for winning. The winner will be announced and the awards presentation will be held at the Arkansas State Capitol in December. Touchstone was selected first for the Monticello School District Teacher of the Year and then was named Regional Teacher of the Year which automatically includes her in the finals for the state Teacher of the Year Award.

The selection for the Teacher of the Year focuses on the teacher’s instructional practices and strategies. Student achievement must increase in his/her classroom and the overall school setting. At least 3 judges will make a final recommendation based on personal application, panel interviews principal and/or superintendent, 5-minute video presentation, and classroom observation. Nominees must be skillful and dedicated and must teach pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. “The mission of the ATOY (Arkansas Teacher of the Year) program is to promote the profession and recognize quality teachers implementing “best practices” in Arkansas public school classrooms,” according to the ATOY press release.

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