The Dubuque Community School District Teacher of the Year was named at the annual Educators’ Recognition Dinner on May 11, hosted by the Dubuque Education Association.
Chris Burke, a mathematics teacher at Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School, was selected for the honor. Burke has taught at Roosevelt since 2007. “Chris’ true gift as a teacher is his ability to connect with students,” said one of his nominators. “He continuously builds strong relationships with students, creating a learning environment second to none.” Burke holds a bachelor’s degree from Winona State University and a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa.
Other finalists for the Teacher of the Year Award were:
- Trica Brokus, a student needs facilitator at Dubuque Senior High School
- Michelle Demuth, a second-grade teacher at Eisenhower Elementary School
- Jennifer Donath, a fifth-grade teacher at Carver Elementary School
- Amanda Goranson, a mathematics teacher at Dubuque Senior High School
- Rich Hatcher, a student needs facilitator at Jefferson Middle School
- Sara Hilby, an art teacher at Hempstead High School
- Joel Miller, a social studies teacher at Hempstead High School
- Kelly Pfohl, a science teacher at Dubuque Senior High School
- Chris Sindt, a science teacher at Washington Middle School
At the dinner, two other special awards were presented. Ed Glaser, principal of Audubon Elementary School, received the TEAM (Together Educators and Administrators Make-it-happen) Award presented to an administrator for exemplary support of teacher success.
Mike Larkin, who taught social studies at Dubuque Senior High School from 1967 through 2001, received the Friend of Education Award. Since retiring, Larkin has continued to be a regular substitute teacher in the district.