Colorado Springs Teacher Named 2018 State Teacher Of The Year

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – Christina Randle, first-grade teacher at Soaring Eagles Elementary School, gets to go on some pretty awesome field trips since she won the 2018 Colorado Teacher of the Year. The Colorado Springs teacher the Harrison School District No. 2 will visit the White House and get to go to NASA’s Space Camp for a week.

"Randle will represent the entire teaching profession in Colorado and be the face of all Colorado teachers who are working hard to help students succeed," said a press release from the Colorado Dept. of Education. "She will become Colorado’s nominee for the National Teacher of the Year Program competition and will get many professional development opportunities."

Award judges were impressed by Randle's "passion for teaching, dedication and collaboration with her peers and commitment to engaging parents in their students’ learning," a statement from the Dept. of Ed. said. "Building young problem-solvers through equity to ensure a solid academic foundation is what defines her as a teacher."

Randle was noted for sharing her knowledge by helping train colleagues about the district's curriculum at Soaring Eagles Elementary, and districtwide. She was also praised for her communication with parents, which includes sending pictures, texts and short messages to families. Her classroom has been used as a model classroom for visits from schools around the state.

“Christina Randle embodies Colorado’s commitment to building strong foundations by supporting high-quality early learning,” said Colorado Education Commissioner Katy Anthes in a statement. “Her focus on building skills, such as problem-solving and collaboration, will benefit students through their entire life. In this role, she will be able to share her passion for teaching across the state just like she has in her school and district.”

Dr. Andre Spencer, superintendent of Harrison School District No. 2, said Randle is an example of what the district stands for.
“Our district family is excited to have Ms. Randle as the state Teacher of the Year. She truly exemplifies the epitome of excellence and distinction," said Andre Spencer, supt. of Harrison School District No. 2. "Ms. Randle is an extraordinary example of what our district stands for…character through diversity, challenge, and accomplishment.”

Image via Colorado Dept. of Education