Spanish Dual Language Teacher of the Year

Teacher of the Year Nomination Criteria

Each nominee must meet all of the following criteria to be considered for this special honor:

1. Current Dual Language classroom teacher (K-12) in New Mexico who is providing instruction in Spanish.
2. Minimum of three years dual language classroom teaching experience
3. Bilingual Education degree or endorsement (Spanish Language)
4. Outstanding contributions to Dual Language Education
5. Philosophy that reflects high student expectations in academic achievement, biliteracy & cross-cultural competency
6. Advocacy for dual language best practice and research
7. Nominated by their principal and/or district supervisor
8. Electronic submission of complete portfolio
9. Faxed submission of the official nomination form

Note: The three finalists must be able to present on their dual language best practice(s) at La Cosecha 2008

Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio contents must be submitted electronically (Official Nomination Form must be signed and submitted by fax) by April 30, 2008.
Note:  items may not be returned.

Portfolio Contents:

1. Official nomination form signed by District Supervisor (this form must be faxed to (505) 243-0377)  
2. Biographical resume (2 pages maximum)
3. Statement of philosophy on dual language education: What is it like to be a teacher/learner in her/his classroom; address two key local, state or national issues having to do with dual language education; include an anecdote that illustrates the power of dual language education (3-4 pages) Community service (1-2 pages maximum)
4. Describe the professional development support system(s) and/or materials that you utilize in your DL classroom. (2-3 paragraphs max)
5. Letter of support/recommendation from principal and/or district supervisor
6. Two additional letters of support/recommendation from colleagues, students, parents, etc.
7. Black and white digital photo (as .jpg)

Note: The top three Teachers of the Year honorees will be notified by the end of August 2008 so that they each can record and submit a video segment of their teaching and prepare to present their Best Dual Language Classroom Practices during the 2008 La Cosecha Conference.