Newtown High School science teacher Kim Lowell was surprised on May 31 with the news that she has been named the 2019 Teacher of the Year for Newtown Public Schools.

According to NHS Principal Dr Kimberly Longobucco, Ms Lowell was overseeing some of her physics students taking a test when a group arrived to share the news with her.

“She’s an exceptional teacher,” said Dr Longobucco, adding that Ms Lowell engages and works to support students through many programs at the school. Later she said, “She’s also a very beloved staff member.”

According to a June 3 release from the school district, Ms Lowell has been a physics teacher at NHS since 1999.

The release reads, “[Ms Lowell] is an exemplary educator who provides each student with a strong foundation in science, critical thinking, and problem solving so they can achieve success. She is a champion of students and personalizes the instruction in her physics classes so that all students are able to understand the unique concepts and real-world relevance associated with physics. Her cardboard boat races in the Newtown High School pool are legendary and demonstrate [her] ability to engage students in hands-on learning and real-world application. In addition to her science teaching, [Ms Lowell] also worked with a colleague to lead the Freshman Partnership program, which has supported struggling freshmen just entering the [high school]. [Ms Lowell] is held in high regard by students, colleagues, and parents.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr Lorrie Rodrigue said in the release, “Kim Lowell is an extraordinary educator who represents the teaching faculty with a high level of distinction. She is passionate about her subject and works hard to continually inspire her students. Her classroom always strikes the perfect balance between rigorous content and relevant activities that engage all learners. We are so fortunate to have [Ms Lowell] in our district, and even luckier that she will represent Newtown in the 2019-20 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program.”

Dr Rodrigue presented Ms Lowell with flowers during the May 31 surprise visit.