Michelle Candland Named AHISD's 2016 Teacher of the Year & Trinity Prize Nominee
A Special Education ELA and Reading Teacher at Alamo Heights High School, Michelle has always been drawn to assist in conquering the challenges faced by teens. Whether working with students through socio-economic, social/behavioral, or academic challenges, she feels a strong commitment to those who struggle to prosper in the generalized educational environment. She strives to help young people become aware of their own potential as valuable, loveable, and helpful community members.
"As a teacher of children with special needs, Michelle has the uncanny ability to build strong, lasting relationships with her students, often lasting well past graduation as they move into the work sector. She deeply understands and diagnoses action plans for her students, considering their current academic and social skill levels, and working to propel them forward to reach unthinkable new heights and successes," shared AHHS principal Dr. Cordell Jones.
Michelle is a leader within her department and within the school. She is a trusted mentor, nurturing new teachers, pushing them to be the best they can be. She is driven to improve. Recently, she was selected as only 1 of 20 teachers from across the state to be part of the original cohort of teachers to work with Texas Tech University and the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research Teacher Training Institute.
Michelle will represent AHISD as the 2016 District Teacher of the Year, moving to the regional competition for the state contest in June. She will serve as the AHISD Nominee for the Trinity Prize for Excellence in Teaching.