South Fayette resident is Teacher of the Year History teacher Joe Welch earns statewide honor By Andrea Iglar As a student growing up in both inside and outside the South Fayette, Joe Welch classroom. admired his teachers and A colleague in the North decided to become an Hills School District had educator himself. nominated Mr. Welch for Now, after 13 years as an the statewide award. educator, he has achieved Following an intensive, the honor of being named 16-month evaluation 2020 Pennsylvania Teacher process, Mr. Welch was of the Year. placed among 12 finalists “It’s a culmination of who attended the education everybody who helped me department’s annual along the way,” Mr. Welch professional development said. conference in Hershey in “It’s overwhelming, but December. I’m very proud.” “The work of the A resident of South teacher doesn’t just exist Fayette Township and 2003 from bell to bell but goes graduate of South Fayette on beyond the day,” state High School, Mr. Welch education secretary Pedro A. teaches American history to Rivera said after announcing eighth graders at North Hills the winner. Middle School in Ross. “Joseph Welch, our In the classroom, he Teacher of the Year that often finds inspiration by we’re celebrating, was a reflecting on experiences great example of that, he had with his own bringing humor, bringing schoolteachers. opportunity and just “They were so dynamic, focusing on the needs of and I like to pull little pieces students.” Joe Welch of South Fayette, left, receives the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year from each one,” he said. In the coming year, award from state education secretary Pedro A. Rivera. (Photo courtesy of the Mr. Welch attended Mr. Welch will have Pennsylvania Department of Education) the South Fayette School opportunities to engage District from third grade with educators from around through his senior year. the state, sharing innovative In 2007, he graduated from Duquesne University, where he teaching approaches and advocating for public education. studied secondary education and history. He also will represent Pennsylvania in the National Teacher of He lives in South Fayette with his wife, Sarah, and children the Year competition. Julia and Noah. “It’s invigorating, and it’s a chance to share my viewpoint and The Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the learn from others all at the same time,” Mr. Welch said. Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania “I’m excited to see what comes next not only for me but for my chapter of the National State Teacher of the Year. students.” The award recognizes educators for achievements in their field
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South Fayette Connect | Spring 2020 | 5
