Gail Yampol, a veteran Kindergarten teacher from Brier Elementary School has been recognized with the 2016 NEA Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence.
This prestigious award recognizes, rewards, and promotes excellence in teaching and advocacy for the association. Yampol was nominated and selected based upon her excellence in five areas: professional practice, advocacy for the teaching profession, community engagement, professional development and attention to diversity.
Graduating seniors still name Yampol as their favorite teacher, because she was strict but caring, full of energy and who caused students to think differently about themselves and their futures.
“Gail gives her heart, soul and unrelenting energy to her students, school and Association,” said Edmonds EA President Andi Nofziger. “I can think of no one better qualified for this award.”
As the recipient of the Award for Teaching Excellence, Yampol will have the opportunity to participate in the NEA Foundation’s Global Learning Fellowship. This 10-month professional development experience focused on global learning will culminate in a 10-day field study in Peru in mid-June of 2016.
Her school will receive $650 from the NEA Foundation in recognition of the supportive and enriching environment in which she works. Yampol will be invited with other award winners to attend a ceremony honoring them in Washington DC in February, 2016.
I notice it in my granddaughter how well she was taught by Ms. Yampol, so well educated for Kindergarteners. All I remember from kindergarten was a half a day, a nap on the rug we brought after our milk, and gram crackers, times have changed!
Way to go Mrs Yampol! Your are the reason Courtney is working hard to become a teacher herself! I thank you for your years of dedication and service to our community!
Jody Molenda