Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/851305
SUMMER 2017 | ADVOCATE 35 Scottsdale Education Association Member Among Top Science Teachers Nationally Honored Professional Educators of Nogales Member Honored as Standout Teacher A.J. Mitchell Elementary School teacher Tania Barojas was selected to receive the Outstanding Teacher Award for the Nogales Unified School District, a practice that was started this year to present such educators at a bi-monthly governing board meeting. Barojas was recognized at the May 8, 2017 meeting. She is currently teaching third grade English Language Learners but over her almost 20 years in the District, has taught a variety of grade levels, said Supt. Fernando Parra. "Ms. Barojas is greatly trusted by her students and parents, and her students are top achievers," Parra added. Barojas, whose parents have both retired from employment in NUSD, started her teaching career through a special "Grow Your Own" program hosted by Northern Arizona University two decades ago and completed all the coursework to become a certified teacher. "Mitchell is where I started, and Mitchell is where I want to be for as long as they will have me," Barojas said after accepting her plaque, adding that she was very honored by the recognition. Congratulations to Cocopah Middle School science teacher Tracey Dodrill on being recognized with a national award for her work in Scottsdale Unified School District. Dodrill received the 2017 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Foundation Educator Achievement Award on May 3, 2017, at the Aerospace Spotlight Awards Gala, Ronald Reagan International Trade Center, Washington, D.C. The AIAA Foundation recognizes five outstanding educators nationally for their contributions to the continued study of mathematics, science, and related technical studies among America's youth. Dodrill was honored for "her truly exemplary contributions to educating and empowering students, everyday, in every way, to pursue STEM education and careers," said Carol Steward, AIAA Foundation Manager.