When Life Hands You Lemons
Educators of Excellence honored in online celebration
Following the success of the virtual Students of Character event, more than 60 educators from throughout the area were honored as Educators of Excellence in a Facebook Live celebration on Wednesday, April 29, 2020.
The annual event, typically held at a local resort, was forced to go virtual following statewide stay-in-place directives. While not ideal, the Education Solutions team that hosts the Educators of Excellence banquet said they wanted to ensure these deserving teachers, paraprofessionals, coaches, leaders, and teams were given their opportunity to shine in some way, shape, or form.
“We always look forward to this event,” said Sourcewell Education Solutions Manager Kassidy Rice. “Obviously we were all disappointed when it was determined we wouldn't be able to hold this celebration as we always do. But after seeing the success of hosting the Students of Character event on Facebook Live, we thought it would be a great option for us, as well.”
Through the Facebook Live event, Sourcewell honored 46 teachers, two paraprofessionals, one leader, one coach, and one educational team from 18 school districts, two education districts, and one charter school. Those recognized are from school districts within Sourcewell's service area, including Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd, and Wadena counties.
“We did the best we could to make lemonade from the lemons we've all been given,” Rice said. “Regardless of the delivery, it was still a sweet event.”
To view the entire event, click here.
To view a copy of the celebration program, click here.
To view and share video clips of each respective school's honorees, click on the school name below:
Each year, Sourcewell celebrates the innovative work of educators who make a difference. Through the Educators of Excellence Awards, we honor an educator from each school in Sourcewell's area of service who has exemplified dedication, professionalism, and leadership for the benefit of students. Additionally - through the same nomination process - one team, one leader, one coach, and two paraprofessionals are also selected and honored.