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Ellen Kraft named Norman Public School District’s 2016 Teacher of the Year
The Norman Public School District tonight announced Ellen Kraft, teacher at Truman Primary School, as the district’s 2016 Teacher of the Year. Kraft began her teaching career in Norman 12 years ago and works closely with students who are learning English as their second language.
Kraft was selected through a competitive process, coordinated by the district’s Staff Development Committee. After being selected as the Teacher of the Year for Truman Primary, she submitted a comprehensive portfolio, participated in various interviews and produced a video that showcased her teaching skills and philosophy. Other finalists were Brandi Caldwell from Lakeview Elementary, Jenny Crow from Kennedy Elementary, Angela Johnson from Dimensions Academy and Adam Lifsics from Norman High.
Kraft’s travels abroad and passion for global issues provided her with a unique perspective into challenges many students face and ultimately led her to pursue teaching as a career. The obstacles associated with language barriers she found drove her to design a series of programs to address the district social and educational needs of her students.
“Ellen is a tremendous asset to our district,” said Dr. Joe Siano, superintendent of Norman Public Schools. “Her initiative, innovation and enthusiasm are infectious and I appreciate the perspective and passion she brings to her role as a professional educator. Like the other finalists, she’s someone who definitely goes above and beyond for our students.”
Several years ago, Kraft did just that. After working closely with a student who performed well for years, she noticed a drastic decline in the student’s achievement. The student was later diagnosed with kidney failure and Kraft wasted no time as she helped the student’s mother obtain, understand and organize the overwhelming number of medications prescribed for her treatment. She also mobilized several community groups to help with home improvements needed at the student’s home to help avoid future illness.
For these reasons, it comes as no surprise that many families include her at their children’s baptisms, quinceaneras, weddings and more.
Kraft credits some of her success as a professional educator to her community service. As a board member for Latinas Women in Norman, Smile Education Foundation executive board member, Big Brothers Big Sisters Resource board member and Leadership Norman participant, she has formed relationships with community members who now volunteer to help support the after-school program she founded. She also has been selected as a NEXT Under 40 recipient.
The district’s Teacher of the Year and finalists are beneficiaries of prizes donated by many generous sponsors, which include Arvest Bank, Copelin’s Office Center, The Health Club, Legends Restaurant, Lierman Graduate Services, McGowen Family, Mitchell’s Jewelry, The Montford Inn, Norman Public School Foundation, Norman Regional Health System, Norman Sooner Rotary Club, OEC, Steve and Barbara Owens, Republic Bank & Trust, Riverwind Casino, Sooner Mall, Tom Jackson Photography, United Way of Norman, Bob Usry and Seth Wadley Ford.