Natick High Teacher Receives Excellence in Education Award

Josh Hanna, the head of the social studies department at Natick High School, was recently honored at the 23rd annual Goldin Foundation Educators Forum, where he was recognized for "Excellence in Education."

"This came as a surprise to me," Hanna said. "I suppose I helped, but I received this mainly because of things the department has done. It's very exciting.

"I've had great leaders. There were so many great teachers I learned from early on in my career. I've had an opportunity to learn from so many. I think this makes a statement about a a group of people who provide a great learning opportunity. It's a great place to teach."

Hanna has been teaching social studies at Natick High for 13 years and is currently in his third year as the head of the department. He is known for making his students do more than simply take tests; rather, he tries to get them involved in the topics they're discussing, such as having his AP Government class work with Town Clerk Diane Packer and the League of Women Voters to implement a Candidates Night as a way of combating low voter turnout.

Hanna also uses Twitter in the classroom as a way to throw out a question online and see what answers they can learn about it later.

"He listens well to students," Natick High Principal Rose Bertucci said. "The district is moving to apply 21st century skills. Social studies is really moving."

Since becoming head of the social studies department, Hanna has also made it one of his missions to get more social studies electives offered at the high school. This makes it possible for students who have a strong interest in a particular area to continue to pursue that interest, and it helps the faculty as well.

"We also want to inspire teachers to write classes they have interest in," Hanna said.

Said Bertucci, "Josh has leadership personality. He's done a great job."