Pendergast Elementary School District
Champion of Equity – Resilient Schools and Districts

Pendergast Elementary School District in Arizona “Established in 1885, the Pendergast School District started as a small farming community serving 100 students in one school. Their educational philosophy emphasized a ‘family’ approach, with the community, staff, and parents working together

Toni Salse
Champion of Equity – Librarian or Media Specialist

Toni Salse, Librarian at Sunset Ridge Elementary School in the Pendergast District, Arizona “Toni’s dedication to students extends beyond the library’s physical space. She regularly volunteers her time to provide one-on-one support to struggling readers, serving as a mentor and

Theresa Copple: The Council for Exceptional Children’s
2024 National Special Education Teacher of the Year

Instilling Self-Advocacy in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students When Theresa Copple was in fifth grade, she had a friend whose parents were Deaf. Theresa’s friend taught her the alphabet in American Sign Language (ASL), and that bit of knowledge

Kristina Holzweiss
Champion of Equity – Librarian or Media Specialist

Kristina Holzweiss, Ed Tech Librarian at Syosset High School in Syosset, New York “Through my teaching approach, I aim to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive and contribute their unique strengths. By combining technology