Dr. Thalia Wood of Toll Gate High School has been nominated for the Harris History Teacher Award by Marie Parys, administrator of the National History Day Program in Rhode Island. The Harris History Teacher of the Year award is sponsored by James F. Harris and is awarded to one middle and high school teacher annually.

Each of the 57 National History Day affiliates may nominate one middle and high school teacher for this award. Dr. Wood is the high school nominee from Rhode Island. The two $5,000 awards are presented to teachers who demonstrate a commitment to engaging students in historical learning through innovative use of primary sources, implementation of active learning strategies to foster historical thinking skills, and participation in the National History Day contest.

“Teachers are one of the greatest resources children have to develop the skills necessary to be successful in both college and their careers,” said National History Day Executive Director, Dr. Cathy Gorn. “The nominees for the Harris History Teacher Award have shown a dedication to teaching that goes beyond classroom. I congratulate Dr. Wood on her nomination.”

Dr. James F. Harris sponsors the awards in recognition of the pivotal role teachers play in the lives of students. The two national winners will be announced on #NationalHistoryDay, June 14.

The two national winners will be chosen by a team of teachers and historians. Nominees’ work must clearly illustrate the development and use of creative teaching methods that interest students in history and help them make exciting discoveries about the past.