2005 IMLA Region 1  Educator of the Year

Kathleen McDanal

Kathleen McDanal is a very deserving candidate for Idaho’s Middle School teacher of the year.  While working with Kathleen, it is immediately apparent that she has a passion for middle school students and the best teacher possible.  In everything she does, it is obvious she cares about her students and their academic, emotional and social growth.  From the very first day of school to the last, Kathleen goes out of her way to make her students feel at home and gives them assurances that she will assist them in any needs they may have.

Kathleen gives 100 percent to her teaching team she is a great listener and has an incredible work ethic.  Kathleen goes out of her way to team closely with our resource students and staff.

Kathleen has spent countless hours to create meaningful and innovative lesson plans.  She incorporates her personal travel experiences in her Social Studies class to make her content more meaningful for her students

Kathleen has volunteered and stepped forward to be a leader within our staff.  Kathleen is a member of our Executive Leadership Team that plans, organizes and implements our collaboration time.  Kathleen has volunteered for the past 8 years to be Woodland’s Coeur d’Alene Education Association building representative.  She has furthered her involvement by attending state level teacher association conferences.

Kathleen has also worked with our state legislators to garner their assistance for education needs.  Recently she convinced one of our legislatures to spend the entire day in her class.  This was an eye opening experience for him that gave this state representative a hands-on school experience and strengthened support for our educational community.

Kathleen is truly a master teacher who has given her heart and soul to her students and the teaching profession.