English teacher Ann Mincks of Des Moines, Iowa, has been named her state’s 2024 Teacher of the Year. Photo Credit: Des Moines public Schools

Our nation is fortunate to have so many outstanding educators working in our public schools. One of these is Ann Mincks, an English Language Learner teacher from Des Moines, Iowa. She has ben named her state’s 2024 Teacher of the Year. The award honors exceptional teachers who have demonstrated excellence in the classroom and who have made a significant impact on both students and colleagues.

Currently, Ann teaches English language learners (ELL) at Hoover High School in the Des Moines Public School District. Her students range in ability levels from emerging to advanced, and span ninth through 12th graders.

During her 16 years as a professional educator, Ann has filled various roles, including working as an instructional coach and as an adjunct professor. Her passion is working with both students and staff to support the language development of all learners. “I believe our actions as educators matter,” Ann declares. “I want students to have an experience that truly breaks down the walls of the classroom and connects students to their future successes in a career and as a community member,” she continues.

Ann earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Education with a minor in Spanish and an endorsement in English Language Learner Instruction from Iowa State University located in Ames, Iowa. That was in 2007. In 2011, she earned her Master’s degree in Education with a Reading Endorsement and a Literacy Specialist Endorsement from Viterbo University located in La Crosse, Wisconsin. To read more about Ann, click on this link to the Des Moines Register.

The Iowa Teacher of the Year program was established in 1958 and is sponsored by the Iowa Department of Education. Educators who are honored serve as ambassadors to colleagues in Iowa’s schools, higher education, and communities.