Shelly Nash Named 2019 Teacher of the Year for Sioux City Community Schools
Inspiring. Respected. Leader. Mentor. Dedicated. These five words embody the work of the Sioux City Community School District’s 2019 Teacher of the Year.
Shelly Nash, a science teacher and Mentors in Violence Prevention advisor at West High school, was honored as the District’s Teacher of the Year at a banquet held on Friday, April 6.
This year, Nash embraced a new opportunity as part of the Geo-Physics Future Ready Team at West High. Students in this class are inspired by the unique curriculum that makes everyday lessons come to life with hands-on, real world scenarios.
Nash’s colleague, Jamie Bratvold, said, “She has created an innovative, student-centered classroom in which students are questioning, challenging, exploring, and learning beyond the students’ imaginations.”
Respect for Nash reverberates from every person she encounters – parents, students, and colleagues alike. Another colleague, Todd Siefker, said, “She carries the art of teaching with a humble, yet noble air.” He went on to explain Nash as “a force of positivity that has inspired teachers’ and students’ lives.”
Because of the respect that Nash exhibits for others and receives in return, it’s no wonder she is viewed as a leader and a mentor by both colleagues and students. She exemplifies a positive attitude and professional expertise that is ideal to emulate.
“I am grateful for the dedication that Mrs. Nash exhibits for her students and her profession. She has made an everlasting impact on the lives of countless students and it is an honor to recognize her as the District’s Teacher of the Year for 2019,” said Superintendent Dr. Paul Guasman.
Nash has been with the Sioux City Community School District for 24 years. She has a total of 27 years in the teaching profession. Nash has a master’s degree in education and bachelor’s degree in Science, both from Morningside College.