Marian Battey Anderson & Charles Wheaton Battey Outstanding Teacher Award

Amount Awarded: $2,250

About the Award: This award recognizes outstanding leadership or potential for leadership at Sheridan Elementary, Irving Middle School, and Lincoln High School.

Nominated By: Rachael Kluck Spann Principal 

Nomination: 

Andrea is a change agent and culture builder at Irving Middle School. She demonstrates
positivity, is solution oriented, a strong student advocate and peer role model. She
demonstrates professionalism and is a peer mentor to many of her Irving colleagues who rely
on her experience, insight and thoughtful guidance, support and advice. Mrs. Abel is a strong
communicator who focuses on establishing and maintaining positive, supportive working
relationships with students and families.

At the start of 2nd semester, Andrea was tasked with the challenge of developing a proactive,
inclusive and supportive classroom in our Student Support Center for students that need Tier
3 support. Andrea took this opportunity to collaborate with special education teachers, our
Special Education Coordinator, Special Education Para-Educators and staff at the district
office. Andrea has done a phenomenal job establishing a conducive learning environment
where even the most reluctant learners and students with many challenges are currently
thriving. She has presented to all Irving staff and provided all teachers guidance and support
as we work to help our students make progress and be successful at school. This open
communication with staff is also highlighted in a 'Student Support Center' weekly newsletter.

Andrea hosts an after school club called Future Teacher Leaders. This is a club for students
who are interested in the possibility of becoming future educators and leaders among their
peers. This club has helped students learn more about their teachers and opened their eyes
to the world of becoming an educator. This is just another example of how Andrea impacts
the Irving community and is helping us create a positive school culture.