Westminster High School Educator Named Maryland Health Teacher of the Year

Kellie Hurst, a health teacher at Westminster High School, has been named the Maryland Health Teacher of the Year for 2013-2014 by the Maryland Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD).

This award is presented to a teacher who serves as a role model epitomizing personal health and fitness, enjoyment of activity, sportsmanship, and sensitivity to the needs of students, according to a news release. Other criteria for the award include utilizing various teaching methodologies, planning innovative learning experiences, and conducting a balanced and sequential curriculum.

According to Dawn Rathgeber, Assistant Supervisor of Health Education in Carroll County, “Kellie prides herself on creating a positive, productive learning environment and inspires her students to think critically about issues which have immediate relevancy to their lives.”

According to a news release, Hurst structures her teaching around the learning styles of her students.  She writes curriculum and has expanded the health program at Westminster High School by piloting an Honors Health 3 course.  She is the chairperson for the Carroll County high school health professional learning community.