Kristen Tangen—2018 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year

Background

The Nebraska International Languages Association named Kristen Tangen from Lincoln Southeast High School its 2018 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year. The Nebraska International Languages Association is a professional organization dedicated to the support and promotion of the teaching of languages in the state of Nebraska. Anyone who is actively engaged in the teaching of a world language at any level of education in Nebraska is eligible for membership. The organization annually recognizes outstanding Nebraska educators and supporters of world language education at its fall conference.

Explanation

The Nebraska International Languages Association named Kristen Tangen from Lincoln Southeast High School its 2018 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year.

Lisa Maupin, a French teacher at Lincoln East High School, said this about Tangen in her nomination letter for the award:

“In the classroom, Kristen constantly searches for ways to reach students and to find methods to teach to their interests. She is aware of their activities outside the classroom and engages them in ways that make connections, often lasting well after they have finished her French classes. Kristen spends a great deal of time looking for resources that will stretch her students linguistically and provides the right amount of scaffolding so they do not become too frustrated. When she finds the right resource, she is quick to pass it along to her colleagues so that we and our students in turn may all benefit.” 

Proposal

That the Lincoln Board of Education adopt the following resolution:

WHEREAS, Kristen Tangen from Lincoln Southeast High School has been named the 2018 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska International Languages Association; and

WHEREAS, Kristen Tangen serves as a mentor and professional resource for her colleagues, who benefit greatly from her experience and dedication; and

WHEREAS, Kristen Tangen demonstrates an uncanny ability to connect with students and teach to their interests; and

WHEREAS, Kristen Tangen is a passionate advocate for world language education and the teaching of French.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lincoln Board of Education

does hereby congratulate Kristen Tangen for being named 2018 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska International Languages Association.

Updated November 14, 2019