This recognition for me is certainly a tribute to the hard work and dedication I put into my craft every day. But moreover, it is a tribute to the fine teachers and mentors I have had along the way and the strong community of professionals with whom I serve. I work alongside some of the most dedicated men and women there are, who model excellence in teaching and inspire me. This award is not a reflection of my work, but of OUR work.

Danielle Merdin Boston, MA | K-6, Mathematics, 2018

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

Danielle Merdin, a 16 year educator, has been teaching at the Dr. William W. Henderson K-12 Inclusion School for the past 14 years. She is currently a mathematics instructional coach, grades 5-12. She previously taught at Oliver Wendell Holmes Elementary. Danielle plays a key role in schoolwide adaptation of station-based instruction, cultivates a growth mindset in mathematics for students of all abilities using data-informed practices, and implements principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Her practice is highlighted in the Spring 2018 Teachers College Record, Columbia University. Danielle designs and facilitates professional learning for school staff. The impact of her leadership in UDL was cited in the Winter 2018 Rennie Center Condition of Education in the Commonwealth. In 2018, she spoke at The Atlantic Education Summit in Washington, D.C. Danielle has facilitated learning institutes at Harvard University, is a guest lecturer at local universities, and welcomed numerous visitors to her classroom to see inclusive education in action. Her passion lies in creating a learning culture where all are expected to achieve at high levels because they can. Danielle earned a B.S. from Gordon College and a M.A. in applied linguistics from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She is certified in elementary education, special education, and English as a second language.

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