Every year, St. Vrain Valley Schools Education Foundation holds teacher-of-the-year nominations to acknowledge educators who present a significant impact on students and their education. Such individuals are highlighted for being innovative, motivating, forming deep connections with their students, being excellent goal-setters, and experts in their respective subjects.

Students and families were able to vote on which educators they believed were most deserving of the role, and three of MHS’ teachers earned this recognition for embodying such traits: Ms. Mackey, Ms. Sonnenberg, and Mr. Duncan.

With teacher of the year being such an immense accomplishment, the three of them are grateful for the recognition.

“It feels good, I’m very honored,” said Ms. Sonnenberg.

Ms. Mackey said, “Somebody took the time to nominate, to sit down and fill it out…[that goes] beyond saying thank you.”

Mr. Duncan related to the same feeling of fulfillment. Earning such recognition is an incredible feat for his first year at Mead.

Being nominated was a touching experience for them, and they immensely appreciate the love. The role of a teacher is hard work, but it’s things like this that make it so rewarding.

“Sometimes you can feel underappreciated, and [when] the people you work so hard for stop to recognize you and say thank you, it means so much,” said Ms. Mackey.

Each of them have curated their own unique teaching style that’s helped foster trustful relationships with students that help improve their engagement and enjoyment at school.

For Mr. Duncan, his focus is on building positive relationships with his students and helping to make each of them feel welcome. He ensures to direct his class in a way that’s relatable so students can easily connect the content in class to the real world.

Ms. Mackey’s goal has always been to encourage her students’ independence and help them learn and grow. Thankfully, Ms. Mackey and her students have a unique connection in theatre. She strives to “work as hard as [she] can for them to get to the finish line.”

There is a lot of time spent between Ms Mackey and her students in theater which is something they love and are passionate about.

Collectively, these teachers have strengthened the English department with their caring hearts. They are all proud of each other and what the nominations mean for their department.

Lastly, “Every department in the school has great teachers.” Said Mr Duncan.