Lori Mathys, a fourth-grade teacher at Chesterfield Elementary, has been selected as a state finalist in the 2010-2011 Missouri State Teacher of the Year program, state education officials announced.
“I’m proud to represent Rockwood teachers as one of the finalists,” says Mathys. “Rockwood is an outstanding school district!”
Rockwood administrators surprised Mrs. Mathys in her classroom on Wednesday morning with flowers, balloons and congratulations. Students cheered as Superintendent Dr. Bruce Borchers shared the news.
Mrs. Mathys has been with Rockwood since 2006. She completed her National Board Teacher Certification, as well as advanced degrees in curriculum and instruction. According to Jodi Davidson, principal at Chesterfield Elementary, Mrs. Mathys uses a variety of teaching styles to reach all students. "She differentiates her instruction and goes the extra mile to help each student on their level. Student voice is heard and represented throughout the different lessons, which helps them feel part of the learning process," says Mrs. Davidson.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) accepted nominations for this state-level annual recognition from school districts across Missouri. A selection committee appointed by DESE reviewed the candidates’ written applications and chose the six finalists. Mathys was included in this selection of the top candidates.
As the next step, the selection committee will interview the six finalists in Jefferson City during the coming weeks, and then select the new Teacher of the Year, who will automatically become Missouri’s nominee for the National Teacher of the Year program.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education conducts the Missouri Teacher of the Year program with financial support provided by The Boeing Company, St. Louis.
Read more about the Missouri Teacher of the Year Program.