Each year, the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce recognizes teachers who have made significant contributions in the classroom and in the community. They are selected based on professional practice, community engagement, leadership in professional development, and attention to diversity.

 

Lakehill Head of Middle School and English and Social Studies teacher Kaye Hauschild was recognized as the Private Middle School Teacher of the Year. "It is my privilege and joy to be a member of our Lakehill faculty," said Hauschild, "where I have been given the opportunity to work with inspired, outstanding teachers and amazing, talented students every day. To be honored as teacher of the year is a little overwhelming, but will be something I truly treasure."

 

"You can tell that she loves what she does, and that it is definitely more than a job--it is a calling," said Director of Marketing and Community Relations Gigi Ekstrom. "If something is exceptional at Lakehill, rest assured that Ms. Hauschild has had a hand in creating or supporting it. Most importantly, she champions the students who need it most. I would speculate that most of us would never willingly return to middle school. We remember too well the academic and social challenges. Perhaps that is because we never had a champion like Kaye Hauschild. Under her watchful eye, delicate guidance, and unwavering support, students in Lakehill’s Middle School thrive."

 

Two additional Lakehill teachers were selected as finalists in the competition. Jennifer Herta  was recognized in the High School category, while  Laura Gigliotti was a finalist in the Elementary School category.

 

The Teacher of the Year Awards Program solicits nominations from all public and private schools in East Dallas as well as from business and community leaders. On November 13, Chamber of Commerce Chairman Darlene Ellison and selection committee chair Cheryl Barnes presented awards to the winners at a luncheon in their honor. Set against the natural beauty of Lakehill's Alice and Erle Nye Family Environmental Science Center, the day was a fitting tribute to East Dallas's finest teachers.