Position: High School Science Teacher
School: Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy
School District: Washington County Mental Health Services
City, State: Barre, VT
Avery McGill was nominated by her principal, Cara Cascadden.
Ms. McGill is a Life Changer at Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy. In the 10 years she has worked in the Academy High School, she has been teaching students how to think differently and become lifelong learners. Working with students with emotional and behavior struggles adds another layer to the work she does every day. Her students are still learning how to self-regulate, and their emotions often get the best of them. Ms. McGill's an educator who can read a student from the time they walk in the door and use an approach that takes their feelings into consideration. She is not afraid to hold limits, but students respect her because they consider her fair.
Ms. McGill embraces all of the best qualities of a teacher while maintaining the adaptability and compassion necessary to work in a therapeutic school environment. She demonstrates exceptional planning and is always prepared to meet students where they are at. Her passion for teaching science is palpable, and she finds a way to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for all students.
"Already this school year, I've seen Avery involving students of diverse skill sets in activities and discussions about the surface tension of liquids, the process of osmosis and diffusion, and varying wavelengths of energy. Each of these topics has been instructed through hands-on projects that are memorable for all students," said Cascadden.
Aside from her exceptional pedagogical talents, Ms. McGill is also an abject professional and a team player. She enters every discussion through the lens of what is best for students. She is selfless and level-headed, even in the highest stress moments. Her efforts and integrity are seen by peers and students, who are motivated to improve themselves because of the example she sets.
"It is an absolute joy to work with Avery and witness first-hand all of the ways she is changing and improving lives," said Cascadden.