Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School art teacher Heather McCutcheon is one of five candidates to be the State Education Department’s Teacher of the Year. 
McCutcheon recently advanced to round three, which includes a site visit as part of the selection process.
“To be moved to this stage of the selection process is a prestigious honor that celebrates the outstanding professional and personal impact you have had on students and colleagues,” wrote Lisa Pingelski, the Teacher of the Year program coordinator. “In short, your contributions to your school community should be celebrated.”
McCutcheon – who has been in the district for 14 years – said it means a lot to be nominated, and the district, the arts, and her students have an opportunity to shine.
“I always like to learn and share that passion with students. Herkimer is my home, the arts are my passion, and sharing these things with the students, the community and the world is what has made this possible,” she said.
“I am always looking for new opportunities for our students at Herkimer to learn and grow. I would not be here without the wonderful support of the Board of Education, Mr. Miller, Mr. Abbe, Ms. Tomaso and all of the amazing colleagues. I love working with other teachers, and collaborating to find these new opportunities to learn is one of my favorites.”