Colony High teacher is 2013 BP Teacher of the Year

PALMER — Colony High School welding teacher Daniel Trotter was named the 2013 BP Teacher of the Year for the Mat-Su Borough School District during a ceremony May 2 at Settlers Bay Lodge.

Besides leading to a meaningful career, Trotter said learning how to weld helps students learn how to solve problems and think for themselves. Welding also builds self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment, he says.

Trotter wrote the curriculum used by all welding programs in the MSBSD. He also has taught adult night classes in welding and is an adviser for Skills USA, a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to make sure America has a skilled workforce.

The award includes a $1,500 scholarship for continuing education and a bronze sculpture by Alaska artist Mary Regat.

BP Teachers of Excellence recognizes Alaska teachers for their dedication to teaching and for inspiring students. Nearly 1,400 nominations were received this year from across the state.

Mat-Su Borough School District’s six BP Teachers of Excellence each received $500 grants and their schools each received matching $500 grants.

They were among 30 Alaska educators honored as BP Teachers of Excellence in 2013.