Durham Teacher Named 2024 NH History Teacher Of The Year

DURHAM, NH — An Oyster River Middle School teacher has been named the the 2024 New Hampshire History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Valerie Wolfson, who has taught social studies at the school since 2005, was honored by the Oyster River Cooperative School District School Board and Superintendent Dr. Robert Shaps Wednesday.

It is her second time receiving the designation; Wolfson was also the New Hampshire Social Studies Teacher of the Year in 2020.

"I am sincerely honored and it is humbling to receive this acknowledgment," Wolfson said in a statement shared by the school district Thursday. "I have had the privilege of working with supportive administrators, collaborating with brilliant and talented colleagues, the freedom to be creative and take positive risks, and to work in a community that has historically supported public education. I have grown and been nurtured by my professional environment."

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to K-12 American history education. Each year since 2004 it has "recognized exceptional K-12 teachers for their outstanding contributions," according to school officials.

One teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and United States territories is honored each year. Teachers are nominated by students, parents, fellow teachers, and community members.

Wolfson will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a core archive of American history books, and educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute.

She is also one of 53 finalists for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award.

"Valerie's work helps our students to better understand their community, country, and world, and their role in each," the middle school's principal Bill Sullivan said. "Through this understanding, they can acknowledge those of different cultures or perspectives and make positive contributions throughout their lives."

The National History Teacher of the Year will be announced later this fall. They will receive a $10,000 grand prize at a special ceremony on Oct. 15 at the Harvard Club of New York City.

"Congratulations to Valerie for this well-deserved honor," Shaps said. "Our students benefit greatly from her remarkable ability to teach civic principles and history preparing them to become informed, engaged, and responsible participants in a diverse and ever-changing society. Our school community benefits greatly from her hard work and dedication."