By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Specialist
Two years ago during an out-of-town UIL meet, Eloisa Peredia sat at a table with her pre-AP chemistry teacher, Jessica Hemann. The two struck up a conversation and, Eloisa recalls, she felt a camaraderie.
“She was the only teacher who understood me,” said Eloisa. “Not only that, but she’s an awesome teacher.”
Skip forward two years. As a member of the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), Eloisa received a letter from the society seeking a nomination for an outstanding teacher. Student members have the opportunity to submit the name of an educator who has made “the most significant contribution to their academic career.” Eloisa, now a senior, immediately thought of her favorite teacher. As a result, Ms. Hemann was selected by the honor society in August as a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction.
“I am very honored to be selected as an educator of distinction,” said Ms. Hemann, who had plenty of positive words about her former student as well. “Eloisa is a very hard worker … and she’s also a great leader.”
Ms. Hemann has been with Athens High School for the past five years and teaches forensics and chemistry.
The Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction award recognizes role models who have made a lasting difference in their classroom by encouraging students to strive for excellence. NSHSS was formed in 2002 by James W. Lewis and by Claes Nobel, a member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes. There are more than one million society members in 160 countries.
“Dedicated educators who exhibit a commitment to excellence deserve our highest praise and appreciation,” said NSHSS President Lewis.