Outstanding educators recognized
Two South Dakota educators recently were recognized for
their efforts in the classroom.
Robert Cook, a teacher at Central High School in Rapid City,
received a $25,000 Milken Family Foundation National
Educator Award. Gov. Mike Rounds and Education Secretary
Rick Melmer presented the award Nov. 1 at a surprise
announcement at the school.
Barbara Dowling, an early childhood teacher at Hawthorne
Elementary in Sioux Falls, was named South Dakota’s Teacher
of the Year for 2006. Dowling also was made aware of the
honor at a surprise announcement at her school on Oct. 27.
Among his many accomplishments, Cook was instrumental in
developing Central High School’s Lakolkiciyapi Room, an
experimental classroom for at-risk 9th-grade students.
Approximately 70 percent of the students served in this
program are Native American. Cook incorporates Native
American culture and history into the classroom and makes it
relevant for all students.
Described by one of his colleagues as a “breath of fresh
air,” Cook is credited with engaging his students and
connecting with their families, positively impacting student
achievement and drop-out rates, and providing “inspiration
for all ages.”
In addition to the cash award, Cook will receive an
all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to participate
in a professional development conference in May 2006.
In making the presentation to Dowling, Melmer noted that
Dowling’s “passion for teaching radiates through her
dedication, her kindness, her patience, and her respect for
all students.”
Dowling has taught for 11 years in the Sioux Falls School
District. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and
speech therapy from South Dakota State University. She also
holds three master’s degrees in special education,
speech/language pathology, and educational technology.
Dowling will be honored at a formal celebration in Pierre
during the 2006 Legislature. She will represent South Dakota
in the 2006 National Teacher of the Year competition.
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