The Denver Nuggets are proud to honor teachers and school administrators in Colorado through the Nuggets Most Valuable Teacher (MVT) program, presented by Ford. The MVT program encourages teachers and school administrators to continually strive for excellency and leadership in their schools by offering a unique experience.
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re taking a look back at the six outstanding educators who received the Nuggets MVT award, presented by Ford, this season.
The educators listed below were selected in recognition of their dedication to empower students in our community. Each award winner received a $1,000 classroom improvement grant, a classroom celebration hosted by Nuggets celebrities, 4 tickets to a game, recognition at a game, dinner at Ball Arena, a Nuggets gift bag, and tickets for their students.
Keegan Nadon – William (Bill) Roberts E-8 School
Classroom Visit: November 17, 2021
In-Game Recognition: November 18, 2021
As a P.E. teacher and Athletic Director at William (Bill) Roberts E-8 School, Keegan encourages her students to be the best versions of themselves both in the classroom and on the court. Keegan holds her students and student-athletes to a high standard both as students and athletes. She encourages them to attend every class every day and be a team player both in the classroom and on the playing field.
Alex Steele – Sedalia Elementary
Classroom Visit: December 7, 2021
In-Game Recognition: December 13, 2021
As a 2nd grade teacher at Sedalia Elementary, Alex takes great pride in working with her students to improve their competency scores and can often be found preparing her classroom and lessons for her students after school. Alex mentors student teachers at her school and was selected by her principal to be on the interview board for new teachers looking to enter the program.
Carol Ortega – Clayton Early Learning
Classroom Visit: January 18, 2022
In-Game Recognition: January 21, 2022
As a Head Start teacher at Clayton Early Learning, Carol has taught hundreds of students over the past 20 years. Carol works to understand the particular circumstances of each child to better develop individualized approaches to learning. Carol makes the most of each child’s early years, laying the foundation for success in school and in life.
DeShon Gray – Farrell B. Howell ECE-8 School
Classroom Visit: February 1, 2022
In-Game Recognition: February 8, 2022
DeShon is the Restorative Justice Coordinator, E. Counselor, and Athletic Director at Farrell B. Howell ECE-8 School in Denver. DeShon spends his days directing the students to make positive choices and often guides them to spend their energy playing sports and making the school a better place. DeShon regular assists with after school programming, stepping in for coaches as needed to make sure that students don’t miss out on after school programming.
Kevin Adams – Denver Center for International Studies
Classroom Visit: March 1, 2022
In-Game Recognition: March 2, 2022
Kevin has been a social studies teacher for 15 years, most recently at Denver Center for International Studies. Kevin also takes time to serve as the staff leader of both the Model United Nations Club and Black Student Alliance at DCIS. Kevin works to build community and solidarity among others, promoting an attitude of inquiry, growth, and inclusion.
Kylie Smith – Hodgkins Leadership Academy
Classroom Visit: March 30, 2022
In-Game Recognition: April 7, 2022
Kylie is a teacher at Hodgkins Leadership Academy and has worked in education for 7 years. Kylie is an advocate for students within special education and always goes the extra mile to ensure that students are successful and feel included. Kylie also takes time to organize monthly school assemblies. These assemblies allow students of all grade levels to participate in activities that build leadership skills while giving them the opportunity to connect with fellow students. ____________________________________________________________________________________
For more information about the Most Valuable Teacher program, presented by Ford, please visit https://www.ksetix.com/nuggets/most-valuable-teacher/