3 local educators named finalists for 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year

PITTSBURGH — Three teachers from western Pennsylvania were named finalists for the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year award.

According to a news release, 12 teachers were recognized as finalists. Of those 12, Brittney Bell of Carmichaels Area School District, Rachel Kalberer of Norwin School District and Justin Ward of Laurel Highlands School District are representing our area.

“The Shapiro Administration commends these excellent educators for their commitment to their schools, students, and communities—and there is no better time to celebrate them than during Teacher Appreciation Week,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “Engaged and enthusiastic teachers inspire their students to reach infinite possibilities of success, and can quite literally impact learners for life.”

Each of the 12 finalists will be recognized in Harrisburg this fall. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony in December.

Here is a list of all of the finalists:

• Anthony Angelini, Conewago Valley School District

• Brittney Bell, Carmichaels Area School District

• Jonathan Bickel, Eastern Lebanon School District

• Ashlie Crosson, Mifflin County School District

• Benjamin Hoffman, Kutztown Area School District

• Rachel Kalberer, Norwin School District

• Heather Kilgore, Chester County Intermediate Unit

• Stephanie Machmer, Jersey Shore Area School District

• Aspen Mock, Forest Hills School District

• Justin Ward, Laurel Highlands School District