USD 490 announced the 2024-2025 District Teachers of the Year on September 26, 2024. The elementary awardee is Jamie Ball and the secondary awardee is Anna Arpin.
These exceptional educators were nominated for the award, then endorsed by their respective school colleagues before being selected by the district Recognition Committee as this year’s award recipients. They will be formally recognized and congratulated by the USD 490 Board of Education on October 14.
Jamie Ball has taught various grade levels at Grandview Elementary for 12 years. Parents nominated her for the significant impact she had on their children while they were in her classroom.
“Her unwavering dedication to her students truly makes a difference, and she deserves to be recognized for her ability to inspire them to be their very best,” one parent said. They also applaud her for her involvement in her students’ non-academic pursuits such as incorporating self-care lessons such as yoga into her daily classroom routines, attending sports activities and other extracurricular events that her students are involved in. This care is felt by families as well.
“Her communication with parents is exceptional; she creates an inclusive environment where students and families alike feel supported and valued,” another parent said. They also appreciate how safe she makes their children feel. “In today’s world, it is invaluable to know that your child is in the care of someone who would go to any length to ensure their safety.”
Ball has served on school and district leadership teams, coached middle school basketball, helped create and sponsor a student leadership team, taught during the district’s summer enrichment programs, and tutors other students after school. Her volunteerism and genuine concern for students has made a lasting impact beyond her classroom or school and into the community as a whole.
Anna Arpin has taught Science and Social Studies at El Dorado Middle School for 18 years. She was nominated by a colleague who admires her skills as an educator.
“She teaches engaging lessons in eighth grade Science, incorporating clever projects into the curriculum to inspire student participation and interest,” the nominator said. They cited specific lessons such as the mock trials that engage all students and her work as the middle school Drama Director that draws students out of their shell and allows them to shine that make her an outstanding educator and assest to the middle school.
In addition to her admirable work with students in the classroom and on stage, Arpin also coached middle school soccer for eight years and serves on the building and district leadership teams. The leadership and expertise she exhibits in these roles is invaluable.
Congratulations to both of these extraordinary teachers on receiving this well-deserved recognition. We are grateful they are #PartOfThePride.