White Plains Physical Education Teacher Receives Prestigious Award
White Plains High School Physical Education Teacher Laura Owen has been named Teacher of the Year by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYSAHPERD). The award honors individuals for excellence in teaching and overall performance in the disciplines of Physical Education at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels.
Owen has taught Physical Education in the White Plains schools for the last 14 years. She also is a coach of the Women’s Varsity Soccer Team.
According to a release from the White Plains School District announcing Owen’s award, in order to be considered for Teacher of the Year a nominee must be actively involved on local, state and national level professional organizations, provide community service, be dedicated to continuous professional development and deliver a quality program that offers her students experiences and opportunities that will develop healthy life long habits.
During the current school year, Owen was nominated by one of her students in a Barnes & Noble essay contest, for a “Best Teacher” award for helping that student overcome physical difficulties that were holding her back in all areas of her life.
Owen is President of the South Eastern Zone Conference of the state association, an active participate in numerous committees, events and professional development in the school community as well as in local and national organizations.
The district further congratulated Owen on her achievement and acknowledged her commitment, dedication and passion for her students, athletes, the school community and her profession.
“Her energetic, and caring teaching style creates a positive learning environment that teaches her students not only the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle but also the importance of being ‘physically educated’ to ensure that they can advocate for themselves and others,” the release said.
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