Press Room
Camas teacher named region's Teacher of the Year
A Camas High School teacher who started an innovative and successful transition program for struggling ninth graders entering high school, has been selected as the 2008 Regional Teacher of the Year for the ESD 112 region.
Mark Gardner, described by Camas administrators as "the heart and soul" of the Freshman Success Academy at Camas High School, is one of nine finalists for the Washington State Teacher of the Year.
"If you are looking for a teacher who connects with kids and motivates them to perform at their very best, Mark's the guy," said Camas Superintendent Mike Nerland. "He is student-centered, creative, enthusiastic - and one of our state's most talented young teachers," he added.
Mark's students and colleagues agree. "Mark is a good listener and demonstrates attention and understanding. He knows how to reduce conflict and dissent, turning it into productive dialogue. Mark's patience is a calming force in a challenging classroom situation," wrote co-workers Mary Weishaar and Karen Rudolf in their nomination letter.
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Tanis Knight said Gardner was already a premier English teacher in 2004 when he volunteered to lead Freshman Success Academy at Camas High School. "This unique program was designed to reach out to entering high school students who might be at risk of dropping out of the system. Mark was eager to share his considerable talents with some of our most vulnerable students," Knight said. She went on to say Gardner is the "real deal - exactly the type of teacher who embodies the very best of the teachng profession. "This includes a focus on leadership, caring, results and impact. We are excited that he is being formally recognized as Teacher of the Year," she added.
Mark received his certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in 2006. He received his Bachelor's Degree in English from Oregon State University and his Master's degree in teaching from Willamette University.