Lynden Community Transitions teacher Kristen Bock was named the annual Masonic Lodge Educator of the Year for Lynden Schools. Lynden Schools\u2019 board of directors honored the longtime teacher at a meeting on May 14 and lauded for her dedication serving students across multiple grades, but most recently as a high-impact member of the Community Transitions teaching team. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cKristen has helped students successfully prepare for life beyond school,\u201d says Rebecca Morgan, Lynden\u2019s director of special education. \u201cShe is known for seeing and developing each student\u2019s potential, collaborating with community partners and mentoring new teachers. Her contributions have made a meaningful and lasting impact on both students and staff.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bock joined Lynden in 2002 as a Lynden Middle School learning resource center teacher. She moved to Isom as a learning resource center teacher in 2014 and then changed roles to teach physical education at Isom in 2016. In 2017, she began teaching in Lynden\u2019s Community Transitions program, which focuses on students aged 18 to 22 transitioning from Lynden\u2019s special education department into real world environments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
David VanderYacht, superintendent, says that Bock has proven herself as a true servant of student needs over 20-plus years with the district, something that hasn\u2019t slowed as she shines as a vibrant member of the Community Transitions program. \u201cKristen serves a vital role in helping students up to 22 years old bridge the gap between high school and adult life,\u201d VanderYacht says. \u201cKristen takes the time to understand each student\u2019s strengths and uses them as a foundation for growth.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Educator of the Year title comes with a $2,000 award\u2014up from $1,500 in previous years\u2014and Bock\u2019s name will get added to a plaque displayed by the district. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cKristen consistently seeks out meaningful opportunities for students to build independence and develop real-world job skills,\u201d VanderYacht says. \u201cHer dedication empowers students to move forward with purpose, preparing them and their families for success beyond the classroom.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"