Katie Maile is the Warsaw Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year.
Maile was surprised to find out she won the honor during a Harrison Elementary School assembly Friday afternoon.
With the award, Maile received a plaque, a $100 gift card for her class, $1,000 for Harrison Elementary School and a sheet cake for her third-grade class to enjoy. Maile has taught at Harrison for five years.After receiving the honor, Maile thanked Wal-Mart and all the students who nominated her. She said she really loves being at school and with all the students.
Randy Polston, Harrison principal, said, "We are very excited for her."
Gary Elders, Warsaw Wal-Mart manager, presented the award to Maile. In his remarks, he said, "It is my pleasure to come to Harrison and name Wal-Mart's next teacher of the year. This teacher is a valued member of the team at Harrison Elementary. Her positive attitude and love of children and the curriculum are reflected in the outstanding quality of instruction in her classroom
"This teacher demonstrates the highest level of professional commitment and competency in her work with students and colleagues. To carry out her professional responsibilities, she gives generously of her valuable time, and often her work extends beyond the school day," Elders said.
He then read two of the students' nominations of Maile.
Student Cameron Brandenburg wrote Maile is the nicest teacher and really good with kids. "She teaches you so good you learn a lot from her," he wrote. "She always has something good to say. If you aren't very smart, (she) can help you and you will be smart."
Another student, name not provided, wrote, "She is a really nice teacher and she likes to help students learn."
