Columbus Elementary second grade teacher Reid Kimura has been named one of four finalists for the 2016 Educator of the Year as part of the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education honors.
The contest celebrates effective and innovative teaching methods that spark enthusiasm and passion in students, parents, and their peers. Educators are nominated for inspiring creativity and enthusiasm in the classroom; demonstrating exemplary teaching methods and style; and having significant impact on students, parents and peers.
Kimura was nominated for his innovative lessons including his “whole brain” teaching style, illustrating his unique ability to motivate and engage his second grade students. The nomination also cited Kimura’s dedication beyond the classroom, raising funds to send students to field trips they may not have had a chance to attend, including a Broadway play and an iFly adventure, where kids incorporate what they learned in the classroom such as inertia and aerodynamics.
The winner will receive a paid mortgage for one school year, plus $2,500 awarded to their school for resources and supplies. Finalists will receive a $2,500 cash award plus $1,000 to their school.
The Educator of the Year winner will be announced live on KGW Newschannel 8’s Live @ 7 broadcast.