Notre Dame Academy art teacher Ms. Tina Harpold has been honored with the prestigious Teacher of Distinction Award.
The award recognizes her dedication and contributions to education.
The selection process for this award involved multiple stages.
“I had to answer questions like an interview in the first round and then make a video of myself as if I was talking to the judges in the second round,” explained Harpold.
The final recognition will take place at a banquet in April, where all the awardees will be formally honored.
“I’m not sure what it entails yet,” she said.
Harpold has been an art teacher with 15 years of experience under her belt, three of which have been at NDA.
When asked about her inspiration for becoming a teacher, she shared that there was no single person who influenced her decision.
“My mom was a math teacher, and I’m pretty sure she tried to talk me out of it actually. It was just always something I kept coming back to even though I’ve done lots of other things.”
Harpold finds immense joy in seeing her students succeed.
“I love getting to see former students be designers, or teachers, or work in theater or use art skills in many other types of careers, ” she said.
She also finds joy in students still remembering the skills she taught them or having one of their old projects in their home.
Despite the rewards, teaching does present its challenges.
“Everyone is at a different point in their learning journey, and everyone’s needs change every day. Keeping up with those changes and managing the variety of obstacles and surprises that pop up in an art room from day to day can get interesting.” she explained.
While Harpold has yet to receive the physical award, she remains humble about the recognition.
“I feel lucky to get to work with all the wonderful people here at NDA who deserve recognition for all the hard work and amazing things they do every day,” said Harpold.
Harpold’s dedication to both her students and work are qualities of a true Teacher of Distinction.
NDA is proud to celebrate her achievements and looks forward to seeing her receive this well-earned honor in April.
