Miami University

9/30/09

Craig Divis, who graduated from Miami University in 2003 with a major in integrated social studies education and minors in history and political science, has been named 2010 Vermont Teacher of the Year.

Divis, 29, is in his sixth year teaching at Bellows Falls Union High School, Bellows Falls, Vt., where he coordinates the social studies department.

His experiences at Miami and the professors he encountered played a tremendous role in his not only becoming a teacher, but in what type of a teacher he is today, said Divis.

Two of the biggest influences on his career were Allan Winkler (professor, history), whose passion for history made Divis want to learn more about the subject, and his advisor, Mike Fuller (emeritus, teacher education).

“It was Dr. Fuller who shaped my teaching philosophy and style through his mentoring. He urged me to break the mold of what history teachers typically do and not to be afraid to be myself in the classroom,” said Divis.

In his nomination packet Divis wrote that the rewards he finds in teaching “are when students become passionate about learning and understanding the world, and want to experience it firsthand.”

As 2010 Vermont Teacher of the Year, Divis will visit schools throughout the state and work with teachers. He will also receive SMART Board equipment and software for his classroom and a $2,500 honorarium for classroom supplies and activities.

In addition, he will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., in April to meet President Obama and represent Vermont at the National Teacher of the Year award ceremony.

The Vermont Teacher of the Year Program is sponsored by Hannaford Bros. Co. The National Teacher of the Year Program is sponsored by ING and is a project of the Council of Chief State School Officers.