Math teacher also alumna of Polk County High School

One of the newest additions to Polk County Middle School’s faculty is already being recognized for her approach to education.

Jamie Hrobak, a first-year sixth grade mathematics teacher at PCMS and a graduate of Polk County High School, was one of 13 finalists for North Carolina Student Teacher of the Year honors. Hrobak and the other finalists were recognized during a ceremony at the 34th Annual North Carolina Teacher Education Forum, held Sept. 21-23 in Raleigh and sponsored by the North Carolina Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators.

Hrobak performed her student teaching at Flat Rock Middle School while a senior at Brevard College, where she made the Dean’s List in every semester of her undergraduate career. Hrobak was also chosen as one of two student speakers at Brevard’s commencement ceremony in May.

Dr. Betsy Burrows, Director of Teacher Education at Brevard College, said Hrobak is “intrinsically motivated, hard-working and dependable. Her kindness and optimism about life, coupled with her curiosity and love of learning,” inspire others.

Dr. Megan Keiser, Hrobak’s university supervisor, said that she “harnessed the power of experiential education to help her students learn content and develop 21st century skills and dispositions.”

“We were very proud of Ms. Hrobak as a student of the Polk County School system and are even more delighted that she has chosen to return and begin her teaching career with us,” said Rachael Haynes-Wood, Polk County Schools personnel director. “We feel grateful that such a talented teacher is committed to the development of our students and community.

“This state level recognition is an honor well deserved by Ms. Hrobak. We are looking forward to having her as a part of our school system as a faculty member.”

– article submitted by PolkStudents.com