Tammy Ranger Named Maine Teacher of the Year

SKOWHEGAN, ME — A reading interventionist at Skowhegan Area Middle School on Thursday was named Maine Teacher of the Year for making a "significant difference in the lives of her students."

Tammy Ranger, who has worked for 16 years in Somerset County schools, was selected out of 300 nominees.

"Ms. Ranger creates a safe, family-oriented atmosphere in her classroom where 'student growth is anticipated, mapped out, and celebrated," Skowhegan Area Middle School Principal Zachary Longyear said in a statement.

Added state Deputy Education Commissioner William Beardsley, “Literacy is crucial for success, andMs. Ranger’s efforts in literacy and so many other areas have made a significant difference in the lives of her students."

Ranger currently teaches seventh- and eighth-grade students. She is Maine's representative in the National Teacher of the Year program, which includes a visit to the White House, a week at NASA's space camp, and an appearance at a national forum with other state winners.

Photo: Tammy Ranger was named Maine Teacher of the year during a ceremony Oct. 13, 2016. (Credit: Maine Department of Education)