Being selected for this award for doing something I love is truly an honor; an honor that was made possible with the support of my family, school community, and my students. It gives me a sense of validation to the hard work and risks I take in the classroom when developing a love of learning for our nation's youngest students. Winning this award adds a renewed excitement for inspiring children to be the best learners they can be. It also inspires me to pursue my professional dreams.

Deanna Fearon Glen Rock, PA | K-6, Mathematics, 2016

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Deanna Fearon has been an educator for 16 years at schools in two states, currently teaching all subjects to kindergartners at Southern Elementary School. During the 2015 – 2016 school year, she followed her kindergarten class into first grade and taught at that level for one year. Teaching the same students for 2 years resulted in increased academic achievement due to the strong relationships developed with students and parents. Deanna's classroom provides her students with innovative lessons that include hands-on, collaborative, and research-based activities. Her use of exploratory activities, STEM projects, and a powerful teaching style create an engaging environment full of excitement, challenges, and enduring learning. Deanna has made countless contributions not only to her students but to her school and community, including work as a mentor teacher, writing the kindergarten curriculum, and being a trainer for new computer systems. She has presented at conferences and in-service meetings on a wide range of topics. Deanna continues to further her education by taking graduate level and professional development courses. Deanna earned a B.S., magna cum laude, in elementary education from York College of Pennsylvania with minors in reading and psychology. She earned her Master’s degree in reading at York College. She is certified to teach kindergarten through sixth grade.

Know a great teacher like Deanna Fearon? Nominate them for PAEMST!