Montana history teacher of the year nominations sought

Press release

Grade school principals are asked to nominate a fourth- through sixth-grade teacher who has done an exemplary job teaching Montana history during the 2016-2017 school year.

The winner will receive the 28th Montana Statehood Centennial Bell Award, which honors the Montana History Teacher of the year.

To nominate a teacher, email Norma Ashby, award coordinator, at [email protected] and include the following information: your name, your email, nominee’s name, nominee’s email, grade level, school name, school address, school phone number. Nominations are due by March 24.

Nominated teachers will be asked to submit two letters of support, one from their principal, and one from a student, and a one-to-two page statement detailing why they enjoy teaching Montana history; how they engage their students in learning; how their Montana history course recognizes cultural diversity; and anything else they’d like to share about their class or methods.

Nominees will receive more instructions on how to submit this material after March 24. They will have until May 4 to submit the material.

The winner and his or her class will be honored at a ceremony in the state capitol on Statehood Day, Wednesday, Nov. 8. The winner will receive a plaque and $2,750 toward library and classroom materials, field trips, speakers and anything else that will enhance learning in the classroom.

This program is sponsored by the Montana Television Network, the Montana History Foundation and the Sons & Daughters of Montana Pioneers in cooperation with the Montana Historical Society. The award is given in odd years to a fourth- through sixth-grade Montana history teacher and in even numbered years to a seventh- through 12th-grade Montana history teacher.

Contact Norma Ashby of Great Falls with any questions about the award or the nomination process at 406-453-7078 or at [email protected].