Avondale High School honors teacher for inspiring students

Described by her colleagues as a “passionate educator whose focus is on students and school community,” Ms. Ann Fredrickson was recently named Avondale High School Teacher of the Year. Fredrickson graduated from Central Michigan University majoring in Education (Spanish and History) and received her Master of Education from Arizona State University. She began her teaching career at Clark County High School where she taught for 23 years. She joined the Avondale High School staff in 2017 teaching Spanish, History and Leadership 101.

“Ann is newer to our community,” said Avondale High School principal Sharon Hyde, “but she is solidly a part of our school climate and culture. She is a positive role model for students and staff members, believing in equity in the classroom, establishing relationships with students and colleagues, hands-on teaching, and lifelong learning.”

Fredrickson demonstrates the importance of equity in the classroom by working closely with staff members and general education students who peer-mentor students with special needs to address the needs of different learners in her charge. She differentiates her delivery of lessons without compromising the integrity of the curriculum so that every student in her classroom can be successful. Using Project Based Learning (PBL) strategies, Fredrickson is able to engage all students at their learning level. She connects her students to the learning process by giving them ownership of their own education. Students participate in a range of “hands-on” and “minds-on” discovery and mastery of content under her direction.

“While incorporating PBL into her lessons, Ann is able to draw parallels for her students that help them translate what they are learning in class to the real-world. It becomes meaningful and relevant, demonstrating to her students that learning shouldn’t end when the class is over,” said Hyde.

Perhaps where Fredrickson has had the greatest impact on her students is in her Leadership 101 class and as the teacher advisor for the Diversity Club and the Interact Club. Leadership 101 is designed as a way for students to build 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, flexibility, initiative and of course, leadership with emphasis on students developing social awareness and social conscience. Modeling the importance of relationship building and developing compassion and empathy, Fredrickson inspires her students to take the front line whenever there is a need in the community. Through the Diversity Club and the Interact Club she mentors students in the areas of acceptance and understanding. Her colleagues say that she is a perfect role model to guide students to act to make a difference within the school community.