Congratulations to Teacher of the Year Eve Juarez and Kayla Brown, this year's Hal and Joann Tehan Award recipient.

The Teacher of the Year is a peer-nominated award for someone who serves as a role model for students and models 21st century learning skills and teaching tools.

Juarez just completed her ninth year as a Computer Science teacher at Ursuline. During her time at Ursuline, she has been a club moderator for the Computer Science Club, a club moderator for the Ursuline Students Supporting Scholarship Club, and an assistant coach for the Cross Country team. 

"Empowering young women to become creators, innovators, and problem-solvers is my favorite part of working with students," she said. "When a student realizes she can succeed, the moment is priceless. I know they will leave my class a little more courageous, confident, and in the words of St. Angela, be able to 'risk new things.'"

She is humbled and honored to receive the Teacher of the Year Award this year. 

"Every teacher, especially this year, has risen to so many challenges and handled them with grace and excellence," she said. "No person is an island. My family and fellow colleagues have provided me the support, motivation, and smiles that lift me up every day so I can be my best self."

In her free time, Juarez enjoys working on puzzles, riding her bike, and looks forward to traveling, hiking, and taking in a movie or two.

The Tehan Award was established by Hal Tehan to honor a teacher whose life and work demonstrates strong integration of the Ursuline mission.

Brown, who just completed her fourteenth year at Ursuline, has taken on many roles over the years. Currently the Dean of Students, she has also been a U.S. History and AP U.S. History teacher, Junior Class Advisor, Social Students Department Chair, and Assistant Dean of Students. 

What is her favorite part about working with her students?

"When I can incorporate faith into our conversations," she said. "Whether it’s at retreats, at Bible study, or in conversations in my office, I think it’s a privilege to be able to ask how I can pray for them and always try to point them to Jesus."

She is also humbled and honored to receive this award. 

"As I heard the list of nominees, I kept thinking how much each one deserved it more than me," she said. "It is such an honor to receive this and I will never forget the kindness showed to me this year."

To unwind, Brown enjoys spending time with her six-year-old son. They watch movies together and get outside as much as they can! She also loves to read, participates in Bible study, and cooks.