Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Celebrating Education in Northern Arizona

Good afternoon,

Workforce development is a topic we often turn to when we talk about the critical needs of northern Arizona businesses, but often that discussion focuses on post-secondary education, internships, and job training.

The fact is that creating tomorrow’s workforce goes back much further, starting in elementary, middle, and high school. Which is why we are so happy that there are several upcoming events that celebrate our local educators.

It starts this Thursday with the annual STEMMY Awards being given out by Flagstaff STEM City to honor students, teachers and organizations who are STEM leaders in the greater Flagstaff community. Last year, Audrey Baird of Flagstaff Arts & Leadership Academy took top honors for STEM educator.

Thursday’s ceremony will be from 6 to 7 pm at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Meanwhile in April, Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget will present the 10th Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards, which also includes the 5th Annual Rookie Teacher of the Year Awards and 2nd Annual Lifetime Achievement Award.

More than 20 teachers have been nominated for the honors, representing a diverse range of schools in northern Arizona, including: Coconino High School, DeMiguel Elementary, Flagstaff Christian School, Flagstaff High School, Flagstaff Junior Academy, Heritage Elementary, Kinsey Elementary, Knoles Elementary, Marshall Elementary, Montessori School of Flagstaff, Mount Elden Middle School, Northland Prep, Puente de Hozho, Sinagua Middle School, Tse’Yaato’ High School, Williams Elementary/Middle School, and Williams High School.

The event on April 20 will begin at 5 pm at the Doubletree by Hilton in Flagstaff.

It is good seeing our educators honored throughout northern Arizona for keeping our students engaged and instilling in them not only the knowledge they need, but those critical thinking and soft skills required as the future employees of our local businesses.

Sincerely,

Gail Jackson

President & CEO

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona