Colony high school teacher NEA finalist

PALMER — The NEA Foundation (National Educators Association) has nominated Bob Williams, a Colony High School math teacher, as finalist in the 2009 NEA Foundation Awards for Teaching Excellence.

Williams, who is in his 23rd year of teaching, has the chance to win $25,000 if he is selected in February.

A Palmer native, he obtained in his bachelor of science in petroleum engineering from The University of Alaska-Fairbanks, but Williams said, he discovered his loving of teaching in Gambia, West Africa, working for the Peace Corps.

“Working in Africa is where I learned that I love teaching and helping students find ways to be successful in the classroom.”

However, Williams’ experience in education does not end there, he has taught in Nome, the Siberian Yupik, many districts of New York City, including the Bronx, Harlem, Brownsville and Brooklyn.

“That I have had great students wherever I have gone and discovering new ways to reach them is exciting.”

As the 2009 Alaska Teacher of the Year he was nominated along with 38 of teachers across the country in NEA Foundations Awards for Teaching Excellence. The NEA Foundation website says it’s mission is, “Advancing student achievement by investing in public education that will prepare each of America's children to learn and thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Throughout the year, NEA has reduced the 38 teachers to a top 10 and then to the top five finalists.

“The other finalists and I have met previously and are really excited,” he said, “we are all good friends and whoever wins we will be happy for.”

In a press release statement, Harriet Sanford, president and CEO of the NEA Foundation, said, “Bob Williams has been selected by his peers because he has attained the highest standards of the profession, as shown by his exemplary instruction, advocacy for public education, a commitment to diversity, and engagement of parents and community. Honoring these educators is our way to thank them for their excellent work.”

When asked about his nomination Williams responded, “I am really excited to be one the five finalists and my students are excited for me as well.”

The nomination for being a semifinalist comes with a $10, 000 award, the NEA Foundation website states.

Williams currently teaches grades 9-12 in geometry, algebra, and AP calculus.

“I have taught math my entire career and just really love math and teaching.”