Introducing 2020 Educators of the Year: Erin Lark, David Tracewell, and Chenoa Meagher!
Leading up to the Educator Awards 2020 ceremony on Monday, September 14th, we’re introducing each of our amazing educators of the year. Meet more of them here!
Today we’ll meet three of our 2021 Regional Teachers of the Year: Erin Lark (Vancouver, ESD 112), David Tracewell (Central Kitsap, ESD 114), and Chenoa Meagher (Kennewick, ESD 123).
Erin Lark, Science & STEM Teacher, iTech Preparatory School, Vancouver Public Schools, Vancouver, Washington
Erin Lark teaches science and STEM at iTech Preparatory School in Vancouver. Using an interdisciplinary, literacy-driven approach, Erin has also taught reading, mathematics and history, also coaching volleyball and golf. Erin earned a Doctorate in Leadership at Creighton with her dissertation on youth innovator skills and STEM interests and proudly serves on the Board of the Washington Science Teachers Association and on LASER SW. She is a graduate program instructor, editor for an academic journal, blogger, and podcaster. Her belief in the power of STEM Education to propel all students into family-sustaining, future careers motivates her dedication to continuous learning as a joyful and necessary pursuit.
Originally from the desert southwest, Erin moved to Washington in 2006 and fell in love with volcanic landscapes and endless evergreens. Her teaching echoes this passion for the environment; students explore concepts like climate change through hands-on projects and service learning. Erin believes the innovators of tomorrow are in our classrooms today, teaching questioning and perspective-taking as keys to innovation. She takes a career-connected approach, building mentorship experiences with local organizations, knowing community-engaged students see themselves as agents of change with incredible potential.
Erin believes the purpose of STEM education is bigger than any one classroom, yet starts with reaching every child. “After being in her class, I have certainly paid more attention to the political and environmental issues,” one student shared, “it has made me realize what a strong impact we have on the health of our Earth and how we can preserve it.” Erin is also dedicated to working with and amplifying voices of teachers across the state. Principal Darby Meade shared that “Erin is a highly reflective and effective educator both for her students and colleagues. She is a champion for STEM and authentic learning in our school, district, and community.”
David Tracewell, ELA and Media Communications Teacher, Klahowya Secondary School, Central Kitsap School District, Silverdale, WA
David Tracewell teaches English and Media Communications to students at Klahowya Secondary School in the Central Kitsap School District. Teaching mostly juniors in American Literature, David’s day also includes all grades from 6th through 12th. David advises numerous clubs such as the Guitar Club, Video Game Club, and Dungeons & Dragons Club. David is involved in nearly all aspects of the school especially in regards to assemblies and other functions and events.
David Tracewell’s classroom is nurturing, engaging, and fun. He pushes students to be better writers, readers, artists, musicians, and better people. David believes that a happy student is a better student. Taking the time to listen to his students’ dreams and hopes and trials and tribulations really makes a difference in the long term success of his students. He truly cares for all of his students and are considered family during the school year.
David lives the idea that it is better to give than to receive. That service above self has greater rewards. He advises his clubs on Mondays, so that students have something to look forward to — that Mondays feel like Fridays. David Tracewell is student first and foremost in all of his actions. David is also willing to work with his colleagues to come up with solutions to better not only the task at hand, but also the environment and overall school day. Because a happy teacher is also a better teacher.
Chenoa Meagher, Kindergarten Teacher, Sage Crest Elementary School, Kennewick School District, Kennewick, WA
Chenoa Meagher was raised in poverty. She lived in a trailer without power or running water. Her strong teacher role models influenced her to become a teacher. Beginning her career in 2001, Chenoa has been a substitute and taught kindergarten, second and third grades. She has taught in Colorado and Washington. She uses her rich experiences to connect with all students.
Chenoa is most passionate about being a kindergarten teacher. She positively influences a students’ and parents’ first experiences in school. Chenoa’s students feel smart, and — most importantly — loved. Her students are prepared academically and emotionally for first grade in an environment that embraces each individual’s gifts.
Chenoa develops strong relationships with colleagues, parents and students. She does this through programs like Girls on the Run, which empowers girls through physical and emotional health. She established the Kinder in Kinder program that has impacted thousands of students in her district. As the Kennewick School District’s professional development coordinator for Kindergarten, she helps establish the district’s direction for learning. She is key to her building’s success by co-chairing the ATP (Action Team for Partnership), organizing Reading Night and Math Night events, creating a summer ATP outreach program, developing school culture with the Sunshine Committee and Carnival Committee, and setting a direction for professional practices with Site Team (school decision making body) and as the K-2 Leader. She is dedicated to teaching and serving her peers and her students.
Not only is Mrs. Meagher devoted to the educators of tomorrow, she’s invested in today’s educators. She invites student, practicum and beginning teachers into her classroom, as well as administrators and the media. Creating a continuous stream of learning demands that she extend beyond the reaches of her classroom and building. That’s what makes Chenoa Meagher a phenomenal educational leader.
Tune into the Educator Awards 2020 to find out who will be the 2020 Washington Classified School Employee of the Year and the 2021 Washington Teacher of the Year! Live on Facebook, Monday, Sept. 14 at 5 pm!
