For the Reporter
Jim Wickens, Kelly Portmann and Alisa Louie have been chosen the 2015-16 Auburn School District Teachers of the Year.
The school board of directors will recognize the trio at 7 p.m., May 23 in the board room of the James P. Fugate Administration building, 915 Fourth St. NE.
The district selects a teacher of the year for the elementary, middle and high school levels.
Jim Wickens, Auburn Riverside High School
Wickens has been a teacher for 30 years, the last 16 at Auburn Riverside. He teaches multiple levels of woodworking and design and is the SkillsUSA advisor and work-based learning coordinator.
With experience as a cabinet maker, carpenter and a master’s degree from Central Washington University in Occupational Education Administration, Wickens is dedicated to his profession.
“I look forward to coming to work every day,” he said. “I love the interaction with the students.”
On being selected high school teacher of the year, Wickens said, “It’s an honor to be chosen. Auburn has so many outstanding educators.”
Kelly Portmann, Rainier Middle School
Portmann, who is in her 21st year teaching sixth grade at the school, also co-coordinates the student leadership program, mentors a new teacher and serves as a Young Life leader.
“I love sixth-graders,” she said. “They are fun and funny, and I love seeing their growth throughout the year.”
Portmann, who grew up in Kent, earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University and her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from City University.
Portmann said being middle school teacher of the year is exciting and humbling.
“Educators are the hardest working people I know.”
Alisa Louie, Evergreen Heights Elementary
Louie loves to be a positive role model for students. At every opportunity, she jumps in to be involved with as many students as possible. After teaching second and fourth grade, Louie has become a learning specialist and English Language Learner coach in her ninth year at Evergreen Heights.
Louie said being chosen as the Teacher of the Year is a reflection of the entire staff at Evergreen Heights.
“Everyone is doing amazing work,” she said.
A native of Renton, Louie earned her bachelor’s at Western Washington University and her National Board certification in 2011.
The three winners move on for consideration as the Regional Teacher of the Year. One teacher from each region will move on to the state competition. The state winner will move on to the national competition.
