Alumni News

When Libia Gil immigrated to the United States as a teenager, she could speak some English but struggled with a limited vocabulary, weak grammar skills and no knowledge of common cultural references. Now, she’s helping make sure more than 4.4 million English language learners in the nation’s public schools receive high-quality instruction.

Socio-economic status, language and race too often predict student academic achievement in schools here in Seattle and across the nation.

Why teach? Educators today are under more pressure than ever before. Standards are changing, schools are growing, and the pay isn’t getting any better. Even so, talented and passionate individuals are still pursuing the profession, and veteran educators continue their work despite all the challenges.

The University of Washington College of Education, Seattle Times and 88.5 KPLU will present a teacher storytelling event on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. in Kane Hall 220 on the UW campus.

David Stroupe '13 has been honored by the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education for publishing the nation's most outstanding doctoral dissertation during the past year, honoring his research on ambitious teaching practice while at the University of Washington College of Education.

Noah Zeichner '04 is one of 50 finalists for a $1 million award designed to be the Nobel Prize of education.

Zeichner, who teaches social studies and Spanish at Seattle's Chief Sealth International High School, will find out in March whether he is the recipient of the Global Teacher Prize sponsored by Varkey GEMS Foundation. The award is designed to elevate the teaching profession by honoring educators who spark learning, prepare students to be good global citizens, and encourage others to become teachers.

UW College of Education students La’akea Yoshida and Christina Black dreamed of doing a world of good as educators. “My entire life, I have wanted to make a difference in the classroom,” says Christina, a recent master’s in teaching graduate and recipient of the Daniel V. Iyall Student Support Fund. Her Alaska Native grandfather never had the opportunity to attend college, nor her mother, who raised Christina and her siblings as a single parent.