Woodbury Teacher Wins AFA Minnesota Teacher Of The Year

WOODBURY, MN— A teacher from Woodbury High School has been awarded Air Force Association’s Minnesota Teacher of the Year, Independent School District 833 said.

Thomas Patzold is a senior Aerospace Studies instructor for the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, the district said.

This award recognizes teachers at local, state, and national levels who create STEM-oriented innovations and learning opportunities in their classrooms, the district said.

“He has created a dynamic and supportive learning environment coupled with excellent community outreach," Woodbury High School Principal, Sarah Sorenson-Wagner said. "This helps students engage and learn critical thinking, leadership and communication skills. His program has been successful in elevating students to colleges and service academies over many years."