5450 N Linder Road Meridian, ID 83646 (208) 350-4340 Attendance (208) 350-4341 FAX (208) 350-4369

March 14, 2012 Selection Committee Members: It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Missy Nichols for the Meridian District Teacher of the Year. I have taught with Missy for the past 3 years, and in that time, Missy has been essential in developing several programs at Rocky Mountain. To begin with, Missy was an initial team member for the senior project; she was instrumental in implementing the requirements and creating supplemental materials that not only helped her students, but aided her co-workers in their instruction of the project. Because of Missys work-ethic and high standards, the senior project at Rocky Mountain has proven to be rigorous and relevant for our students. Overall, Missy took the initiative to simplify procedures and to ensure that the process is smooth for both students and teachers. In addition, Missy is a leader in developing the curricula of the courses she teaches. For example, she took over as the AP literature teacher last year, adding novels and writing assignments appropriate for students preparing for the AP test. The end result was an AP class that was not only appropriately challenging, but one that also achieved a 78% passing rate, well above the national average. One attribute that I have always respected about Missy is the rapport she establishes with her students. Her students not only like her and want to work hard for her, but they respect her and seek a deeper relationship with her. There are often students in her room before and after school and at lunch getting help, talking about their day, or sharing personal issues. Perhaps Missys greatest strength is her flexibility as a teacher. Missy has taught inclusion courses, night school senior English, and AP English all while coaching softball and raising a family. I have always been impressed with the personal attention each student receives from her. Moreover, she individualizes assignments to meet her students needs. Without a doubt, this is a testament to her skill and dedication as a master teacher. It is my impression that she is the most valuable asset for our district as Teacher of the Year.

Sincerely,

Cynthia Mills Educator

Mike Hirano, Principal Jeff Blaser, Assistant Principal Andy Horning, Assistant Principal Melissa Knueven, Assistant Principal Matt Smith, Assistant Principal

5450 N Linder Road Meridian, ID 83646 (208) 350-4340 Attendance (208) 350-4341 FAX (208) 350-4369 Rocky Mountain High School

Cynthia Mills Honors English 11 Yearbook Newspaper Rocky Mountain High School

Mike Hirano, Principal Jeff Blaser, Assistant Principal Andy Horning, Assistant Principal Melissa Knueven, Assistant Principal Matt Smith, Assistant Principal