Kaleigh Baker, OFLA Immediate Past President

As I mentioned in my fall article, I asked you all to be thinking about those among us who are making positive contributions to the teaching and support of world languages. As Past President and the Awards Chair, I am excited about the nominations received so far for our various OFLA Awards.

I would also like to highlight again our OFLA Teacher of the Year, Maria Herman. I have gotten to know Maria both personally and professionally over the last few years and she is truly an amazing person, teacher, and advocate for world languages.

In case you missed it in previous emails or social media, here is her bio:

Maria Herman is currently in her 18th year teaching German.  She received bachelor’s degrees in German, Music, and German education from the University of Toledo.  She spent time teaching at Whitmer High School, as well as at the Toledo Zoo before beginning full-time at Maumee High School in the fall of 2011 where she currently serves as German teacher and world language department chair.  Some of her favorite parts of teaching include the celebration of Maumee High School’s annual Oktoberfest, which takes place at the end of October each year.  Maria Herman also really enjoys daily activities and interactions with students, as well as working with Maumee High School’s German Club.  She was  honored to receive a stipend to attend a 2-week course in Munich, Germany for teachers from all over the world who teach German.  There, she was able to connect with international colleagues, re-fresh her German skills and enjoy time immersed in the culture of Germany.  Maria Herman is honored to be selected as OFLA’s Teacher of the Year and is looking forward to attending Central States in Kansas City next month.

If you are interested in nominating yourself or another wonderful educator you know for Teacher of the Year next year, please reach out so we can help you!