Cory Hafer, an engineering and science educator at Middletown High School within the Appoquinimink School District, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of 2024 Delaware Teacher of the Year. Hafer has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to education and his innovative teaching methods.
Selected from a pool of 20 candidates through a rigorous two-phase judging process, Hafer’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections with his students and advocating for the education community stood out prominently. His journey to becoming the 2024 Delaware Teacher of the Year is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exemplary teaching practices.
“I am just really excited to represent my students’ voices and teachers’ voices in Delaware on a larger national scale”, expressed Hafer upon receiving the accolade. His enthusiasm to amplify the voices of both students and educators underscores his commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Throughout his 11-year tenure as an educator, Hafer has continually demonstrated a willingness to innovate and adapt his teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of his students. Emphasizing the importance of flexibility in education, he aims to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive at their own pace while working towards shared goals.
Hafer’s educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in molecular, cellular and developmental biology from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in biology teaching from Columbia University, further enhances his expertise in the field of science and engineering education.
As the 2024 Delaware Teacher of the Year, Hafer will serve as a representative for educators across the state, advocating for positive change and meaningful educational experiences. His acceptance of this prestigious title comes with the responsibility to champion the needs and aspirations of both students and teachers alike.
In his acceptance speech, Hafer reiterated his dedication to promoting the importance of building student connections and utilizing restorative practices in the classroom. “Building connections and creating an educational space where students are excited to learn and connected with the real world is going to lead to really meaningful education”, he affirmed.
Hafer’s recognition follows Ashley Lockwood’s tenure as the 2023 Delaware State Teacher of the Year. Lockwood, an esteemed educator from Lulu Ross Elementary School, set a high standard for excellence in teaching, and Hafer’s acknowledgment as her successor reflects his commitment to upholding and advancing educational standards within the state.
With his unwavering passion for education and his commitment to excellence, Cory Hafer embodies the qualities of an exemplary educator and a deserving recipient of the title 2024 Delaware Teacher of the Year. His leadership and dedication will undoubtedly inspire positive change within the education community, both in Delaware and beyond.
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