The National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) works to recognize and honor exceptional career teachers, encourage excellence in teaching and preserve the rich heritage of the teaching profession in the United States. They recently announced the 2016 inductees, five teachers with extensive experience and significant results advancing student learning. Of the five inductees, three are National Board Certified Teachers.
Strong Vision
The NTHF vision is to be a prominent national organization that enhances the public’s awareness of the vital role of education in society by working collaboratively with national education organizations and building linkages with other national teacher recognition programs. The Hall of Fame recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of exceptional career teachers, preserving their careers in museum and virtual formats and utilizing their skills and experiences to elevate teacher quality and student learning through integrated programming.
Founded by Emporia (Kansas) State University, the NTHF has a museum on Emporia State’s campus that honors the teachers inducted. It also has a teacher resource center, and a recognition program, which recognizes five of the nation’s most outstanding educators each June. The Hall of Fame annually honors five teachers who have demonstrated commitment and dedication to teaching children. The first induction of five teachers was held in June 1992. To date, 120 teachers have been inducted representing 37 states and the District of Columbia.
Board Certified Teachers recognized
Since 2002, of the 70 teachers inducted into the NTHF, 19 have been Board Certified Teachers. The 2016 inductees include the following:
- Debra Hurst, NBCT, Retired, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Inclusion, ESL Teacher, Austin, Texas, Independent School District, 39 years as a classroom teacher
- Wade Whitehead, NBCT, 5th Grade, Crystal Spring School, Roanoke, Virginia, 22 years as a classroom teacher
- June Teisan, NBCT, Retired, 7th grade Science, Harper Woods Secondary School, Harper Woods Michigan, 27, years as a classroom teacher
- Kimberly Stewart Bearden, 5th and 6th grade Language Arts, The Ron Clark Academy, Atlanta, Georgia, 28 years as a classroom teacher
- Jennifer de Grassi Williams, Retired, Pre-K through 12th grade Art Teacher, Nampa, Idaho, 32 years as a classroom teacher
See photos of the Class of 2016 here.