Gretchen Whitehurst, a dedicated Math Teacher and AVID instructor at Baraboo High School, was recently awarded the prestigious Excellence in Education award. Presented on Wednesday, May 29th, by the BHS Class of 1956, this accolade recognizes outstanding secondary educators within the School District of Baraboo for their exemplary instructional skills, leadership, and commitment to the community's youth.
"Gretchen is a leader amongst our staff. She continually goes out of her way to make sure that she has a positive impact on every student that she interacts with. We are so appreciative of the impact she has on the culture of our building," remarked Steve Considine, Baraboo High School Principal, highlighting Whitehurst's exceptional dedication and influence. This year, Whitehurst played a pivotal role in the establishment of grade level teams, showcasing her leadership abilities and collaborative spirit. Her efforts to expand the AVID program schoolwide have been fundamental in its successful implementation. Considine further emphasized Whitehurst's broader impact, noting how she tirelessly collaborates with colleagues, sharing insights and strategies to enhance teaching and learning across the school.
"Gretchen's dedication to her students is unparalleled. She not only imparts mathematical knowledge but also fosters a supportive environment where every student feels valued and understood. Her commitment to knowing her students on a personal level ensures that she can tailor her teaching to meet their individual needs, both academically and emotionally," added Considine, highlighting Whitehurst's holistic approach to education.
Sarah Eckert, Director of Secondary Education, highlighted Whitehurst's dynamic teaching style, stating, "Gretchen brings energy, dedication, and enthusiasm to the classroom, igniting a love of learning and inspiring students to achieve more than they ever thought possible. She exemplifies a true professional making the complex art of teaching seem effortless, seamlessly blending knowledge, empathy, and skill to create an engaging and effective learning environment for all students." Whitehurst's commitment to educational excellence and her unwavering dedication to her students have truly distinguished her as a beacon of inspiration within the Baraboo High School community.
Mrs. Whitehurst is the 18th 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.