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Megan Gross awarded Teacher of the Year 2016-2017

Photo Courtesy of www.powayusd.com
Photo Courtesy of www.powayusd.com

The annual “Salute to Teachers” event occurred on Saturday, September 10, which gave appreciation to San Diego’s educators.

Poway Unified School District was recognized across the board with three nominees: Carole De Bruin of Abraxas High School, Joe Gizzo of Meadowbrook Middle School, and Megan Gross of Del Norte High School. Each nominee was given the opportunity to share their passion for teaching with their colleagues, while standing  on stage in an Academy Awards fashion.

Out of ten finalists, Gross, who is a Special Education Teacher, was awarded with one of five San Diego County Teachers of the Year 2016-2017. This places Gross in the running for California State Teacher of the Year. Over the years, 161 San Diego County Teacher of the Year awards have been received, and 19 of those teachers have gone on to be named California Teacher of the Year.

Many aspects of her teaching style contributed to Gross’ win. Gross focuses on using technology as a tool for communication and has claimed that all students are capable of success. Her main goal is to cease social bias and judgmental tendencies against those with mental and physical disabilities. Beyond the classroom she also acts as the co-advisor for the Best Buddies club at Del Norte.

“My students have taught me communication is so much more than words,” Gross said.

In traditional PUSD fashion De Bruin, Gizzo, and Gross will be honored within the district at the next PUSD Board of Education Meeting.

Written by Nicole Glidden

Nicole Glidden is a proud Cheez-It addict, who spends her free time binge watching Netflix. She has trouble getting into jeans, due to her soccer calves. Nicole hates running with a passion, yet participates in multiple sports.

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