Each year, schools choose who will be teacher of the year; this year, Tricia Frank, an ESOL teacher was awarded the honor here at Parkway North High School. Frank has made a lasting impact on both teachers and students.
“She goes above and beyond for her students and makes sure that they get the supports they need inside and outside of the classroom,” said math teacher Melanie Wilmert.
Frank goes into classes like Wilmert’s where a majority of the students who are a part of the ESOL program are. She can make sure all of her students are engaged, understand what is happening, and doing what needs to be done.
“I try to show them the real-life importance of the work we are doing. All the things we learn in my class usually help support them in their other classes which then makes them practical tool,” Frank said.
Frank helps students whose first language isn’t English, helping them be more successful in the classroom. These students come from around the world and have to learn a new language while also learning in classes.
“She is the ESOL teacher and she is a liaison for many students and parents between their home and school. She helps with getting interpreters and makes sure the ESOL students have the support they need in the classroom to be successful,” Wilmert said.
Each month, students in different Academic Labs are chosen to recognize teachers who have made an impact on them. Frank has received several notes from students since she impacts their lives.
“The nominations students do sometimes on the little half sheets matter. Even if your teacher does not win, we get those notes, and the words students write make our days brighter,” Frank.
To become teacher of the year, a teacher is nominated by fellow staff members who recognize the connection that teacher has with students and the hard work they put in.
Frank loves what she does and credits her students for helping her grow as well.
“I learn every day to be humbled by such hard workers and to remember my blessings here. Can you imagine moving to another country and trying to take eight classes in their language?” Frank said.
