Umatilla teacher wins state award

By Terry Murry on Monday, August 12th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

UMATILLA – (News release from the Umatilla School District) The Umatilla School District is proud to announce that Valerie May, a third-grade teacher at McNary Heights Elementary School, has been honored with the 2024 Mildred Bennett Elementary Math Education Award by the Oregon Council of Teachers of Mathematics (OCTM). This award was presented to Ms. May on August 8th at the Oregon Math Leaders Conference held at Oregon State University in Corvallis.

Ms. May was nominated by her colleagues for her exceptional contributions to mathematics education. The Mildred Bennett Award honors elementary or middle school teachers who embody a spirit of joy and work ethic, which promotes quality mathematics education for all children. Recipients of this award demonstrate exemplary work in their school with an innovative approach to taking new ideas and adapting. Their ongoing commitment of time and energy to improve teaching in their community supports and promotes mathematics throughout the state.

Superintendent (Heidi) Sipe highlighted Ms. May’s dedication, stating, “Beyond your classroom, you have been a steadfast advocate for students and our district. Your dedication to the Umatilla School District is evident in every action you take. You have gone above and beyond to create a positive and supportive learning environment for all students, regardless of their background or challenges.”

Photo from Umatilla School District shows Valerie May with her parents. The district did not supply her parents’ names.