Top teacher is praised as a ‘hero’
Published: October 2, 2004
Every student can excel - given the right environment.
That was the message from Cyprus High School teacher Ember Eskelson Storrs after she was named the 2005 Utah Teacher of the Year on Friday at a banquet honoring the state’s kindergarten through 12thgrade teachers in Salt Lake City.
The 14-year math teacher was selected from among 21 district nominees by a panel of education and parent representatives.
“I had no idea,” said a surprised Storrs, who needed a moment to compose herself after she was named the winner.
“It’s a great honor,” she told a crowd of about 140 public school teachers, their families and supporters. “I look around and see these are the very best educators in Utah. I know people all over the state at some point have said ‘thank you’ for all you do.”
Associate State Superintendent Ray Timothy read accolades from parents and colleagues who praised Storrs as someone who always has interest in her students.
One parent wrote how touched her daughter is by Storrs writing her a note, asking if everything is OK when the young girl does not do as well on a test, said Timothy. “She’s a hero inside and outside the classroom.”
He presented Storrs a $1,000 check. She also received a SMART Board - an interactive white board.
On hand to congratulate Storrs were Gov. Olene Walker, state School Board Chairman Kim Burningham and school Superintendent Patti Harrington.
As this year’s honoree, Storrs will represent Utah in Washington at the National Teacher of the Year Program. While there, she and fellow teachers of the year will meet the president.
Over the summer, Storrs will receive a trip to Space Camp in Alabama, said Mark Peterson, coordinator of Utah’s Teacher of the Year Program.
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