Four Dallas teachers battle (to the death) for DISD 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year award

by PegNews wire

It's not too late! Just text your vote to 1-800-TEACH and stay tuned for the final elimination round.

The Dallas Independent School District has named four finalists for 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year.

Not provided by DISD

Clockwise from left: Cook, Kaiser, Lewis and Wicks. I think Ruth is winking at me. And I like it.

A committee of judges selected the semifinalists and finalists based on a number of criteria, including the ability to inspire a drive for excellence in a diverse student population, commitment to professional development and contributions to the teaching profession, awareness of current issues in education, level of community involvement, and quality of interactions with parents and peers.

The Dallas Independent School District’s 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year will be announced at a banquet on Thursday, May 17, where the winner will receive $5,000 and will represent the district in the regional competition.

The finalists are:

Osley Cook Jr., Oliver Wendell Holmes Humanities/Communications Academy (6-8)
Ruth E. Kaiser, Obadiah Knight Elementary School (K-5)
David W. Lewis, Magnet Center for Public Service: Government, Law, and Law Enforcement at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center (9-12)
Candace E. Wicks, Erasmo Seguin Community Learning Center (PK-3)

The finalists’ combined teaching experience totals more than 87 years.

Source: DISD