–A First Grade teacher at Bryant Elementary School is the latest recipient of the AHS Class of 1979 Excellence in Teaching Award. Dianna Haynes was recognized during a ceremony on Wednesday attended by teachers and staff members from around the district.
Haynes has received multiple nominations for the award during her career in Algona. A recent nomination from a mother who says her son struggled to read said “She has found a way to spark a joy of reading in my son by creating personalized stories about him and his group of friends, with each chapter introducing a new friend and adventure. Watching the boys huddle together, excited to read the next chapter and find out what happens, has been nothing short of amazing.”
The nomination went on to say, “Mrs. Haynes truly embodies what it means to inspire students to not just learn how to ready, but to find excitement in the process.”
Haynes’ name has been added to a plaque on display in the District Administration Office. She also receives an engraved school bell and a $400 prize.
The AHS Class of 1979 established the award as a way to recognize outstanding educators in Algona. Members of the community nominate current teachers for recognition, then a committee reviews those nominations and selects the Teacher of the Year. This is the 25th year the award has been handed out, and it is administered by the Algona Community School Foundation.
