Kent Teacher of the Year Jay Maebori chosen as Regional Teacher of the Year

Jay Maebori, Kent School District’s Teacher of the Year, was selected as the Regional Teacher of the Year by Puget Sound Educational Service District. Maebori, a Kentwood language arts teacher, was selected for the regional award by a committee of teachers, administrators, and district office employees who reviewed his application and visited his classroom. The PSESD serves 35 school districts and more than 200 state-approved private schools in King and Pierce counties. Maebori will represent the public school districts during the selection process for state teacher of the year.

“We’re very proud of you,” commented Principal Doug Hostetter to Maebori. Hostetter, Superintendent Edward Lee Vargas, Executive Director of School Improvement Janis Bechtel, and representatives of the PSESD surprised Maebori at school on June 16.

“Jay’s application and interview made it clear he was the correct choice,” noted PSESD Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Julie Rolling.

“I’m blessed and humbled,” commented Maebori after the recognition. “I work with a lot of great teachers in this school and the district. It is amazing to receive this recognition.”

As the PSESD Regional Teacher of the Year, Maebori is eligible for consideration as the state’s teacher of the year. The selection process begins in September and the 2011 Washington State Teacher of the Year will be announced in October.