2014 Teacher of the Year

Denise Lisac Named Alaska Teacher of the Year

Denise Lisac, K-5 reading teacher in Dillingham Elementary School in the Dillingham City School District, was named Alaska Teacher of the Year 2014 at the annual conference of the Association of Alaska School Boards on Sunday, November 10. Jim Merriner said, “On behalf of Alaska's State Board of Education & Early Development, I am honored to present the TOY award.” Denise’s term will begin January 1, 2014.

“Ms. Lisac is very knowledgeable in her field, and dedicated to student learning.” said Alaska Education Commissioner Mike Hanley in a statement. “Ms. Lisac inspires and encourages fellow staff through healthy life style choices and is always encouraging students and staff to read and learn.”

“Denise’s positive attitude and unwavering confidence in children’s abilities to change and grow are to be commended. It is without reservation that I recommend that you look not once, but twice at Denise Lisac as Alaska’s 2014 Teacher of the Year” said Marilyn Rosene, Principal at Dillingham Elementary School.

Lisac believes that a strong sense of classroom community is essential for student’s success. “Effective classrooms require collaboration among teachers, students and parents,” she said. “I believe that all children can learn when they are accepted for who they are and where they are in their educational journey…It is essential that all students are recognized for their strengths and given credibility within the classroom and school. We all have different strengths and should be encouraged to develop them in a safe environment.”

Lisac has taught for 33 years, 30 of which were in the Dillingham City Schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and has earned 77 credits in professional development from the University of Alaska.