Nevada Pre-K Educator Awarded Top Honor: Inspiring Futures at Tate Elementary School

In a heartwarming ceremony at Tate Elementary School, Pre-K teacher Leigh Todd was surprised with the prestigious title of Early Educator of the Year by the Nevada Department of Education.
A Joyful Moment:
Leigh Todd, a beloved teacher with 24 years of experience at Tate Elementary School, was greeted by a crowd of students and colleagues applauding her well-deserved recognition. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as five fifth-graders she had taught proudly presented her with a sign announcing her achievement. Todd expressed her gratitude for the honor, stating that she loves what she does and is dedicated to her students' well-being.
A Remarkable Journey:
Todd's nomination by Tate's principal, Sarah Popek, highlighted her exceptional ability to connect with her students and their families. Her impact goes beyond the classroom, as she teaches parents how to support their children's education effectively. Nevada Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jhone Ebert, praised Todd, describing her as someone who 'oozes joy.'
Celebrating Excellence:
The Early Educator of the Year award aims to recognize outstanding teachers in early childhood education, focusing on infant, toddler, and pre-K educators. Todd's passion for teaching was evident in the way she engaged her students, with Popek emphasizing her exceptional ability to create a welcoming and stimulating learning environment. Todd's fluency in Spanish was also highlighted as a valuable asset in connecting with diverse families.
Inspiring the Next Generation:
Popek stressed the importance of quality pre-K education, noting that it lays the foundation for a child's future academic success. Many students who had Todd as their pre-K teacher expressed their admiration for her impact on their learning journey. Along with a cash prize and gift certificates, Todd's dedication to early education was celebrated with two fresh floor cushions and a framed certificate. Todd's recognition as Early Educator of the Year reflects her commitment to shaping young minds and creating a positive impact on the future generation of learners.