Four named as semi-finalists for Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Johnny Key announced Thursday (Aug. 1) the four teachers named 2020 Arkansas Teacher of the Year State semi-finalists. The semi-finalists were selected among 15 regional finalists and were recognized at an event today at the Governor’s Mansion.

The four semi-finalists include:

Catherine Beckham
Grades 10-12 Orientation to Teaching I and II and Senior Internships
Mountain Home High School Career Academies
Mountain Home School District
Northcentral Education Service Cooperative

Joel Lookadoo
Grade 9 Algebra 1
Lakeside Junior High School
Springdale School District
Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative

Melissa Spence
Grade 1
Theodore Jones Elementary School
Conway School District
Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative

Jeffrey Whitlow
Grade 5
Don R. Roberts Elementary School
Little Rock School District
Pulaski County

“With so many outstanding educators, it can be difficult to pick just four for this honor,” Key said. “Each of these teachers exhibits excellence both in and out of the classroom. I congratulate each for their passion for teaching and their efforts to ensure all students achieve their best.”

Each semi-finalist received a certificate, medallion, and a $1,000 award at today’s ceremony. The ATOY Selection Committee will conduct site visits, to include classroom observations and interviews, over the next several weeks. The 2020 ATOY will be announced this fall.