Nicewarner selected Teacher of the Year
Briana Cunningham, Staff Writer
January 11, 2011
Filed under News, Top Stories
Third time’s the charm.
That was the case for DHS math teacher Ms. Stephanie Nicewarner.
This year was her third nomination for DHS teacher of the year, and finally she received the honor. At the ceremony to announce the winner, the department heads had to speak on behalf of the teachers nominated from their department, but since Nicewarner is department head for math, Mrs. Renee Koontz spoke on her behalf.
“Renee said I won because I never tell people no, if they ask for help or need anything I’m there,” Nicewarner said.
Nicewarner graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and then received her Masters in Mathematics from TWU. After graduating, Nicewarner began teaching at Denton High School, where she has been for the past seven years.
“[My favorite thing about DHS is] the teamwork among teachers [and] the camaraderie among teachers and students,” Nicewarner said. “It’s a great place to work.”
During her seven years here Nicewarner has taught everything from Algebra I to Pre-Cal to IB Math Studies, she even taught an early morning Geometry class to eighth graders. Her teaching skills have received praise from her colleagues as well as her students.
“Ms. Nicewarner is an outstanding teacher,” fellow math teacher Ms. Marlene Nobles said. “She challenges her students as she motivates them to do their best. We are fortunate to have her on campus!”
Her students feel the same way about her as well.
“She is a really good teacher because she takes the time to explain everything,” sophomore Elena Souris said. “Her tutorial times are very helpful. I use those a lot.”
Nicewarner was very shocked that she won the award, but her coworkers knew many reasons why she is worthy of such an honor.
“Ms. Nicewarner is not only an outstanding teacher, but also a dedicated leader of the math department,” Calculus teacher Mr. Fred Mueller said. “Her dedication to both students and colleagues is truly remarkable.”
Nicewarner, whose favorite part about teaching is getting to know the kids, still isn’t quite sure how to feel about being bestowed with such an honor, but she put her feelings into words.
“It’s very flattering and humbling [to be teacher of the year] because there are so many other amazing teachers here,” Nicewarner said. “It’s a very big honor.”
When asked what her future plans are Nicewarner just smiled and simply answered, “[I wish to] keep doing what I’m doing. I love what I’m doing!”
Loading ...
Congratulations to Ms. Nicewarner! Her contributions to the IB programme at DHS are fantastic as well!
[Reply]
Congratulations from a very proud brother. Way to go, Sis!
[Reply]
Well Deserved, Ms. Nicewarner!!!!
You taught both of my kids, Austin (’11) and Ariel (’12) and gave them skills that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. I can guarantee that they will think of you as one of their favorite teachers of all time. Thank you so much for your hugely important contributions to DHS and all of our children’s futures. Best wishes for the future!!
Daniel & Helen Bailey
[Reply]