'Best' teachers in state work in metro area

DENVER - Every year the Colorado Department of Education recognizes the tops of the teaching profession in the state. This year, all three finalists teach in districts in and around the Mile High City.

"I believe in hands-on engaging, interactive activities that enforce excellence in the classroom," said Michelle Pearson, social studies teacher at the Hulstrom Options school in Northglenn.

Pearson, Justin Darnell, and Lynn Jackson are up to be 2010 Colorado Teacher of the Year.

"It's incredibly meaningful," said Lynn Jackson, a 5th grade teacher the Eldorado K-8 School in Superior. "Teachers unfortunately don't get enough recognition."

Darnell says that's especially true in Denver.

Darnell is a science teacher at the Bryant-Webster K-8 in northwest Denver. He is the first finalist from the urban district since 1982.

"It's been so long. We're the second largest district in the state, but haven't had a representative in that long," Darnell said. "I'm really glad to be the first person in a long time and I think what it reflects is the positive change that's taking place in our district."

Many of the students at Bryant-Webster are from low income families. Many are still learning to speak English. These are factors that are often associated with lower test scores. Yet, the kids at Bryant-Webster are outperforming the state average in the science CSAP tests.

Darnell says a big key in his classroom is building relationships with students and among them before motivating them to learn.

"I know their lives. I know their culture. I know their interests as well they know about myself," said Darnell. "If they don't trust me and I don't trust them, then we can't build relationship."

He mixes that with a rigorous program and high expectations and he's giving these kids a chance to be successful in life.

"We are going out and seeking families. We are seeking students and are pulling them in and we are showing them how to succeed," said Darnell. "They all have the ability, but it's, no one has ever cared about them before. No one has ever taken the time to really move them forward."

Jackson shares a similar philosophy as she creates a comfortable classroom community at her school in the Boulder Valley School District. Jackson's 5th grade room is filled with art work and projects that encourage creative thinking. She has a candle burning, making her room smell like baking bread.

"Almost think of it as a kid's bedroom, how they would see their bedroom," said Jackson. "This is a safe place. Take a risk."

Jackson says students must know that are loved by the teachers in a nurturing environment.

"It's about letting the kids know that they are family. They are not just a part of the day that they're the whole part of the day," said Jackson. "We laugh together. We learn together. We make mistakes together. We grow together."

She is a finalist for Teacher of the Year for the second year in a row. Last year, Susan Elliot, a teacher at Highlands Ranch High School, was named as the 2009 recipient.

"It's a little nerve-wracking to do this twice," said Jackson. "What's important about teacher of the year making a statement for kids, making a statement for teachers."

Pearson agrees. As a social studies teacher, she understands the importance of finding ways to keep kids engaged. She tries to bring her history lessons alive by experiencing history through smells, touch, and interaction.

"By getting them fully involved, in understanding what they're learning and making a difference, then it engages them in the subject," said Pearson. "All of a sudden, they forget boredom exists and excitement comes alive and the meaning behind what they're learning makes a difference."

Pearson is big on using technology in her classroom. She has students put together podcasts, power point presentations, along with online-based assignments which help students relate to history in a 21st century way.

"It's about reaching them through the methods that they use in their personal life," said Pearson.

The winner will be announced Friday evening at the Colorado Department of Education awards ceremony. 9News Anchor Kyle Dyer will be the host.

Pearson says no matter who wins; the higher purpose is a better education for all kids.

"It's about what we're all doing together and that itself to elevate our profession," said Pearson.