2020

Andrew Beiter

Springville, NY | YEARS TAUGHT: 26

Mr. Beiter believes, “Teaching is the art of inspiring and empowering others to reach their full academic, social, and personal potential.  I feel so fortunate to have been guided by positive influences to enter what I feel is a sacred calling, one that allows me the privilege of loving my students, caring for them, and at my best, inspiring them to take the torch that others have given me.”
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION:
​​2020           Panel participant on Holocaust Education at 75th anniversary of the liberation of
                    Auschwitz, Krakow, Poland
2017            Collaboration Award from Erie County School Board Association
2013            Louis Yavner Award for Human Rights Education
2010           National Teacher Fellow for the Lowell Milken Center
2010           Curriculum Specialist for the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Human Rights
2009          New York State Union of Teachers Regional Award
2008          National Teacher Fellow for US Holocaust Memorial Museum
2008          American Irena Sendler Award for Repairing the World

Dr. Melissa Collins

Memphis, TN | YEARS TAUGHT: 22

Dr. Collins emphasizes, “It is imperative to students’ learning that there is a positive relationship between students and teachers.  My students feel comfortable in communicating with me, and they often share their challenges and  successes.  My students also know that their voices matter; therefore, my classroom is more student-led than teacher-led.”
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION:​
​2017          Global Teacher Prize Top 50—Varkey Foundation
2017          Shell Oil Company Urban Educator Award
2015         Henry Ford Teacher Innovator Award
2013         Horace Mann Award, NEA
2012         Global Fellowship trip to South Africa, NEA Foundation
2012         Pearson Global Fellowship Award
2008       Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching
2006       National Board Certified Teacher: Early Childhood

Donna Gradel

Broken Arrow, OK  | Years Taught: 33

Ms. Gradel  observes, “The core of my teaching philosophy  is ‘Every life matters,’  Every student can learn regardless of their starting point,  Students want to explore the world around them and be inspired to make a difference in life.  Students need to be encouraged and loved, but also challenged.  By taking risks to provide opportunities for my students, I see student growth, both academically and socially.  And I grow with them.”
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION:​
2019          Finalist for National Teacher of the Year (CCSSO)
2018          Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year
2017          Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators
2015          Henry Ford Innovation Nation Innovative Teacher Award
2014          Oklahoma Medal for Excellence in Secondary Teaching
1994          Oklahoma State Championship Coach Award

Thomas Knab

East Amherst, NY | Years Taught: 32

Mr. Knab;s vision: “ I believe all students must achieve.  I believe the teacher is only one path through which knowledge flows.  I believe learning occurs best through each student’s point of motivation.  I believe successful teaching comes in the ability to provide inspiration.  I believe students must be taught not only the skills and knowledge of a discipline, but also taught how to continue that learning throughout life.” 
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION:​
2019          Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes Fellow
2019          President, National Art Education Association
2018          National Art Education Association Elementary Art Educator of the Year
2018          New York State Art Teachers Association Art Educator of the Year
2013          Western New York Boys Volleyball Hall of Fame
2012          Ray Henry Award  (NYSATA)
2003         Local Leadership Award (New York State United Teachers)
2002         President’s Award (Williamsville Teachers Association)
1998          Joe Gillespie Friend of Volleyball Award

Jamil Siddiqui

East Bridgewater, MA | Years Taught: 27

Mr. Siddiqui observes, “I believe in having a growth mindset. Success does not come from knowing the correct answer; it comes from the struggle to find that answer.  Not all students have equal innate mathematical abilities, but they can all choose to exhibit the same work ethic and attitude.  All students can find success by working hard, improving, and being willing to try new ideas.  This is what I want all of my students to learn in my class.”
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION:​
2019          Massachusetts State Teacher of the Year
2019          National Education Association Foundation Award
2017          Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science
2008        Math Moves U Teacher of the Year
2000        Teen Ink Teacher of the Year