Series 4000: PERSONNEL -- CERTIFIED & NON-CERTIFIED

4115.1 Teacher Recognition

Teacher of the Year Award

A. Introduction

The classroom teacher is the backbone of the American education system. No person has a greater impact on the education of a child than does the teacher who creates the primary learning and  instructional environment. The Teacher of the Year Award is one of the most prestigious awards presented by the Board of Education. It is designed to focus attention on excellence in teaching. Annually, in June an honoree will be announced by the Chairman of the Board of Education or his/her designee.

B. Purpose

The purpose of the award is to provide an opportunity for the Board of Education to express its gratitude for service and performance which is given willingly on behalf of the students and the community.

C. Intent

The award is intended to commend classroom teachers for their performance.

D. Eligibility

1. Nominees should be certified teachers who work with children in a classroom setting in pre-kindergarten through grade 12, and employed in the Thomaston Public Schools.

2. Nominees should possess a superior ability to inspire learning in students.

3. Nominees should be exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled teachers who plan to continue in an active teaching status.

4. Nominees should have the respect and admiration of students, parents, colleagues and administration.

5. Nominees should play an active and useful role in the community and be involved in civic and/or humanitarian activities.

6. Nominees should be poised and articulate.

E. Nomination

The following procedure will be used to nominate recipients for the Teacher of the Year Award.

1. Each year prior to May 1, any staff member, student, community member, or administrator may nominate, in writing, to the Superintendent of Schools a certified teacher employed in the district to be considered for the award.

2. Nomination forms may be submitted in writing or electronically to the Superintendent of Schools.

3. The nomination shall be based on eligibility standards listed in Section D of this policy.

4. The written form shall be signed by the individual making the nomination.

F. Selection

 The following procedure will be used to select the recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award.

1. The Superintendent will form a committee to review nominations received for the Teacher of the Year Award.

2. The committee will consist of an administrator from every school, district level administrator, Superintendent, and the Thomaston Teacher of the Year from the prior year.

Policy adopted: April 11, 2016 THOMASTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS Thomaston, Connecticut