08/22/2024
NCTR's 102nd Conference is dedicated to Empowerment Through Education – and what better way to embody this theme and the grassroots of our organization than by showcasing an educator who empowers future generations daily.
Meet Missy Testerman, the 2024 National Teacher of the Year and our Guest of Honor at this year's James D. Mosman National Teacher of the Year Dinner.
Missy Testerman is not just a kindergarten through eighth grade English as a second language (ESL) teacher in Rogersville, Tennessee; she is a beacon of hope and a champion for her students, their families, and the community. Serving as the district ESL specialist and ESL program director, Missy has dedicated her career to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive in her rural Appalachian community.
Missy's teaching philosophy fosters understanding and unity in a community that, while tight-knit, often grapples with the challenges of diversity. “Most importantly, my students were exposed to stories of Americans who did not look like them, allowing them to understand those cultures and their own by seeing that people are inherently the same, no matter the culture. We all have struggles and triumphs, and we all belong.”
This commitment to fostering inclusivity is just one aspect of Missy's impactful career. Her journey as an educator is also marked by her innovative teaching methods and her relentless advocacy for better learning conditions. Her work has not only transformed the lives of her students but also made a lasting impact on the broader educational community through partnerships with universities and mentoring future educators.
We invite you to join us at our 102nd Conference from October 5-9, in Atlanta, GA, to be inspired by Missy Testerman’s story and the powerful message she embodies. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate her incredible contributions to education at the annual James D. Mosman National Teacher of the Year Dinner on Monday, October 7. Let’s come together to honor those who empower the future through education.
Register today: https://web.nctr.org/events/102nd-Conference-6022/details