A teacher from North Little Rock named as Arkansas Teacher of the Year

North Little Rock, Arkansas –A North Little Rock Middle School teacher received praises and recognition on Friday as she was named Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Capri Salaam was recognized for her contributions to the community as well as her work as social studies and multi-classroom teacher by the Arkansas Department of Education and Arkansas Teacher of the Year Committee.

Salaam was awarded the title, according to the committee members, because of her creative teaching methods and capacity to engage and connect with any student.

“Ms. Salaam’s teaching skills, commitment to her students, and love for the profession are reflected in her creative and innovative efforts to meet her students where they are,” Governor Asa Hutchinson said.

The governor’s praise for Salaam was supplemented by Johnny Key, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Education. Salaam was the ideal candidate for the award, according to Key, who expressed his immense excitement to name Salaam Teacher of the Year.

“Her ability to bring history to life through creative lessons, combined with her ongoing love of learning and professional growth, are reflected in her students’ success both in and out of the classroom.” Key said.

After earning two master’s degrees and a bachelor’s in the arts from several universities in Arkansas, she continued her study. She is pursuing a graduate certificate in learning systems technology education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

She also holds several teaching certifications and belongs to numerous community organizations.

Salaam has received a total of $16,000 from the Walton Family Foundation as a regional finalist, state semifinalist, and candidate for the title of National Teacher of the Year.

”Ms. Salaam’s dedication extends far beyond the time she engages with her students in the classroom,” Gov. Hutchinson said. “She is very deserving of this honor.”

The ATOY program’s goal, according to the website of the Arkansas Department of Education, is to advance the field and honor excellent educators who apply best practices in the state’s public schools.

Salaam will join the State Board of Education as a non-voting member on July 1, 2023, and she will tour the state to promote her platform, which aims to enhance students’ mental health and continuous social-emotional learning.