Weekly Column: Honoring Idaho's Teachers

Rebecca (Becky) Mitchell, who is the head of the language arts program at Vision Charter School in Caldwell, was selected to be the 2018 Idaho Teacher of the Year.  Becky is recognized as a teacher who is committed to preparing students for life after high school and encouraging students to pursue higher education.  Becky is a great example of Idaho teachers who dedicate their time and talents to inspiring students.  As the school year draws to a close in many districts, it is a good time to thank teachers for all they do to prepare students. 

Becky has taught for nearly 20 years and teaches Physics, Chemistry and Drama at Vision Charter School.  She teaches dual-credit classes, enabling high school students to also earn college credits and learn more about potential career paths before investing too much time and money.  The lessons she provides include important fundamental skills such as financial responsibility.  And, like so many teachers, she fills many roles in assisting students, including serving as senior adviser, coaching athletics, teaching broadcasting and more.   

“During my time in Washington D.C., I discovered that Idaho is a hidden gem in our preparation and investment in career and vocational training,” said Becky Mitchell.  “Many in education, including those in CTE at U.S. Department of Education, didn't realize that every high school freshman in Idaho is given Advanced Opportunities funds to invest in their education as he/she feels fit, including career and technical courses.  At Vision, we have students who have completed their CNA certification, Basic EMT, Welding, and next year, two young men will spend their senior year at CWI completing their automotive certificates.  I am incredibly proud that we invest in our students' futures in Idaho, whatever path they may take.”

I commend Becky and other Idaho educators who work to prepare our nation’s youth for jobs in career and technical fields as career options for students.  Georgetown University reported that by 2020, 65 percent of all jobs in the U.S. will require postsecondary education and training beyond high school.  I have pressed for the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE) Act to help prepare students for the competitive and evolving job market.  Vocational-technical education prepares participants for both postsecondary education and employment. 

The Idaho State Department of Education administers the Idaho Teacher of the Year Program, and recipients of the award have opportunities to travel across Idaho and discuss education with other teachers and policymakers; and travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with fellow Teachers of the Year from other states and the President of the United States.  Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra announced Becky Mitchell’s selection for the honor. 

National Teacher Appreciation Week is recognized in May to encourage teacher appreciation events to help show teachers how valued they are in our communities.  I have supported the Senate’s unanimous passage of legislation recognizing this time to honor teachers and thanking teachers by honoring their roles and contributions in building and enhancing the civic, cultural and economic well-being of the U.S. 

Like Becky Mitchell, teachers wear many hats.  They are encouragers, consolers, coaches, friends, awakeners, advisers, innovators and much more.  We all know teachers who make differences in our lives.  The most significant teacher in my life was also my mother.  As an English teacher, she recognized the importance of good grammar and punctuation for clear communication.  I owe her a great deal of gratitude for the lessons I have benefited from throughout my life.  Thank you to Idaho’s talented teachers for your lasting lessons. 

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