Higley teacher an ‘Ambassador for Excellence’

Connor was among five finalists for the AEF's "Teacher of the Year" award. All five were recognized as "Ambassadors for Excellence," including the one awarded "Teacher of the Year."

"Ambassadors" serve as spokespersons for their profession, advocating for excellence in the classroom by making presentations statewide to education, civic, government and professional organizations. Each Ambassador receives a $5,000 cash award, professional speech training and a scholarship from Argosy University for 50 percent of the cost of tuition toward a master’s or doctorate in education and more.

“Ms. Connor is an excellent role model for the students and staff of Higley,” said Higley Superintendent Dr. Denise Birdwell. “She holds high standards for herself, she is an excellent communicator, a community servant as she instills this in the student group she leads, and she is an excellent role model for those entering the teaching profession."

This year's AEF "Teacher of the Year" award was given to a Mesa high school teacher.

To learn more about the AEF Teacher of the Year Program, please visit azedfoundation.org.

About Higley Unified School District
Higley Unified School District is an “A” rated community of schools designed to share a common commitment to education and achievement for our youth and a sense of well-being for all. We focus on providing continuity from preschool to high school with a well-rounded education including academics, music, arts, languages, athletics, physical education, technology and character education.

Our performance meets and exceeds state standards in academics, and our students are champions both on and off the field. We are tenaciously focused on each student's learning, and we take the guesswork out of education with data-driven instruction and accountability. For more information, please call (480) 279.7000.

About Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF)
The Arizona Educational Foundation is a nonprofit organization that fosters excellence in education by administering statewide programs that enhance the capabilities of Arizona’s schools. It endeavors to strengthen the teaching profession, design high quality curricula, stimulate student achievement and celebrate the successes in K-12 public education in Arizona. Since 1983, through its Arizona Teacher of the Year Program, A+ School of Excellence Program, Arizona Spelling Bee, Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest and Principals’ Leadership Academy and UnitED, AEF identifies, recognizes and awards exceptional schools, leaders, teachers and students. Visit azedfoundation.org or call 480-421-9376 for more information.