On May 3, 2024, the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce presented the Educator of the Year Award to Urbandale High School (UHS) Math Teacher Haley Howell during a surprise presentation at an all-school assembly. Howell sets high standards for her students, leans into challenging situations, models the utmost integrity, and fosters a true sense of community throughout the entire school. 

Over the past year, UHS implemented a new math curriculum which typically results in a research-based phenomenon known as an “implementation dip.” However, grade data and math data showed no such dip. A major reason for this is because of the high standards Howell sets for all students and her dedication to meeting the needs of every single student. 

In addition to implementing a new curriculum, Howell was also teaching a new course for students needing to learn concepts and skills that had been previously taught. Howell was faced with the challenge of being able to serve students needing more support than she could offer. It was at this moment that Howell changed everything because she became vulnerable and asked for help. She leaned into strengthening relationships with her students. Instead of placing blame, she fostered community. She maintained the high expectations that she had set for students and modeled the willingness to ask for and accept help in reaching those expectations.

Her actions sparked the change of a culture and opened the door for many more to follow in her footsteps. Howell deserves to be Educator of the Year, not just because she cares for every learner but because of what her actions inspire others to do. The best part is, she has no idea what a powerful impact she has on the system!

In addition, Howell shows great empathy and care for her students as they regularly stop in to see her before, during, and after school just to say “hi” and connect with her. Howell is an educator who extends her reach far beyond the classroom.

UCSD congratulates Howell on receiving the 2024 Urbandale Chamber Educator of the Year Award. We are fortunate to work alongside Howell and all of our outstanding UCSD educators. Well-done! #UHSpride #UHSwillchangetheworld

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