GC alum, Lena Charles ’18, named “Teacher of the Year” in Dallas

GC alum Lena Charles ’18 was named “Teacher of the Year” at Dallas Independent School District’s Price Career Institute. Charles, who is in her third year at the school, teaches Spanish and is the “SEL champion.”

Student comments partially determine the recipient of the award, and Charles’s students described her as “fun,” “sunshine,” and a teacher who excels at teaching difficult content. They note Charles’s ability to blend care and concern about students’ lives with excellent pedagogy. School counselor Kimberly Miles said of Charles, “She has the ability, personality, and attitude that empowers her students.”

At Goshen College, Charles was on the women’s soccer team and spent two semesters studying in Spanish-speaking countries. Reflecting on her preparation at GC, Charles said, “My education and PJCS courses taught me to recognize implicit bias, work towards equity in the classroom, and facilitate hard conversations.”

Charles’s professors are not surprised that she received this award. They remember her as a student with an energetic mind and dynamic personality. Director of Secondary Education Suzanne Ehst commented, “She was often in my office to talk about adding a minor or fitting in an elective course. Her sharp mind and generous spirit made her a delight to work with. It’s fulfilling to see her carrying that joy and curiosity into her own classroom.”