The Weston Education Foundation (WEF) is pleased to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week by bestowing the 2023 Elizabeth W. Stokes Founder’s Award on WIS teacher Tara Rice.

The Founder’s Award recognizes each year one teacher from Weston Public Schools who has created an innovative and educational out-of-classroom experience impacting one or more students. Any current student and/or parent can nominate a teacher.

In reaching its decision, WEF examined a multitude of nominations from students and parents who shared their experiences of teachers they’ve had from Weston High School, Weston Middle School, and Weston Intermediate School. The nominations for Ms. Rice detailed her creativity in using outside the classroom activities and tools to inspire learning and to create meaningful relationships with her students and their families. We were especially impressed with the nominations that came directly from former students of hers (now 4th graders!).

Ms. Rice utilizes many teaching strategies such as moving the learning physically outside the classroom whenever she can, and leveraging the use of technology, via email and a free App. With these many strategies, she’s able to rally her students and their families around student learning, creating meaningful, long-lasting experiences. Please join us in congratulating Miss Rice!