DALLAS—The Dallas Independent School District announced the finalists for the 2013 Teacher of the Year, and the winner will be named at a reception and dinner May 14, sponsored by Central Market. The five finalists are:
Paula Cushanick, a prekindergarten teacher at Albert Sidney Johnston Elementary School. Cushanick began her formal teaching career in the alternative certification program after many years as a dance teacher. She is known as an educator who teaches to the strengths and learning styles of every child in her class and one who works to reassure each student that she is one of their strongest supporters.
Kevin Grimes, an eighth-grade history and global studies teacher at George Bannerman Dealey Montessori, is known for encouraging lively, energetic discussions in his classroom allowing students to express themselves. He challenges his students to go beyond the obvious, ask questions, take risks in their thinking and validate their thoughts with specifics. He is respected by his peers, parents and students who often credit him with preparing them to be successful in high school and beyond.
Joshua Newton is known as a motivator and student advocate at the School of Science and Engineering at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center where he teaches math and serves as department co-chair. Newton regularly analyzes data looking for better ways to teach and implements innovative strategies to help each student succeed. He can be found at all school functions supporting students and spending countless Saturdays working with students, taking them to competitions and encouraging them to do their best.
Beth Poquette Drews, a music teacher at Harold Wendell Lang Sr. Middle School, has taught students for more than a decade.
As an orchestra and guitar instructor, Poquette teaches her students to work as a team toward the common goal of a polished performance. She uses a variety of engagement techniques to help students identify mistakes and work together to correct them. Through her team approach, students learn to be leaders and they learn to value the opinions of others.
Seagoville Elementary School librarian Linda Wood works with all teachers to reinforce classroom content that supports rigorous, high-quality instruction in an effort to move students forward to achievement. She is praised by her colleagues as one who gives more than 100 percent and embodies the district’s core beliefs through her commitment to students, their families and the Seagoville Elementary School community. Additionally, Wood is the campus technology guru, grant writer and sponsor for the student reporters who write articles for the local newspaper.
Finalists are selected by a committee of educators, parents, community partners and others.Winner will be announced May 14 at event sponsored by Central Market
