The School District of Baraboo is delighted to announce Ms. Rita Ehlert, English Language Arts Teacher at Jack Young Middle School, as the recipient of this year's highly esteemed Excellence in Education Award for Secondary Teacher of the Year. Her unwavering commitment to her students' academic growth and holistic development sets her apart as an exceptional educator.
Ms. Ehlert, a beloved member of the faculty at JYMS, has consistently gone above and beyond to engage and inspire her students. With her dynamic teaching methods, she brings the subject matter to life, fostering a deep understanding and love for learning among her students. “Her creativity is on display in her teaching, but also on her walls--a classroom that always turns heads for its appeal and focus on learning,” said Ms. Jane McMahon, Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Ehlert actively contributes to the school community as the lead tutor for an after-school program that provides academic support services for students who identify as Native American. Her dedication to their success extends beyond the academic realm, ensuring that his students develop essential life skills, including teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking.
The Excellence in Education Award acknowledges Ms. Ehlert’s tireless efforts and her significant impact on the lives of her students. Her passion for education and her ability to inspire young minds make her an exemplary role model for her peers and an asset to the educational community.
Ms. Ehlert is the 17th recipient to be honored as the secondary school teacher of the year. The award comes with a stipend for professional development or educational enrichment to enhance the recipient’s knowledge, instructional skills, and classroom effectiveness.
The Excellence in Education Award was established in 2006 by the Baraboo High School Class of 1956, on the occasion of their 50th reunion, and in honor of the dedicated educators who taught, guided, and inspired them during their years together at BHS. The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of South Central Wisconsin on behalf of the BHS Class of 1956. The Baraboo School District oversees the nomination and annual selection of the recipient.