The Education Foundation of the Summit (EFS) and Summit School District (SSD) Parent-teacher Organizations are pleased to announce the 2019 Eileen Finkel Innovative Teaching Awards (“Eileen Finkels”). Over $60,000 is being awarded for creative teaching ideas that will be brought to life starting immediately. “I was very pleased to see so many innovative projects this year,” commented Paul Finkel, founder of the awards and EFS director.

There were over $100,000 in requests. Almost all requests were granted in whole or part by the “Eileen Finkels.” For those not funded, EFS, PTAs and principals brainstormed how to make other ideas a reality with existing resources and cross-school partnerships.

Projects in literacy, computer science, special needs, art, theater, and career/technology will enhance student learning this year. A  few examples of awards given this year include:

  • “Metals and Art” will bring Summit High art students to the welding shop thanks to Ms. Jacobson Speedy
  • Ms. Glissman’s freshman students will participate in a book study of Neil Degrasse Tyson’s book, “Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry.” 
  • SHS and Summit Middle (SMS) students will have “Best Buddies Outings” pairing special education students with other students for memorable adventures thanks to teachers Ms. Scott and Ms. Brock (SMS) and Ms. Garvert (SHS)
  • Ms. Kirkland is bringing “Professional Video on the Go” to SMS
  • Silverthorne Principal Wacaser is making “Health and Wellness Connections” for her elementary students
  • Ms. Martinez and Ms. Clark (Dillon Valley), Ms. Larsen (Frisco), and Ms. Stuhr (Summit Cove) are teaching new computer coding languages to elementary students

With the Eileen Finkel Innovative Teaching Awards, many ideas may be just a one-time trial. Other ideas grow into long-term programs, such as the Annual Author’s Visit and the robotics and coding which brings  STEAM programs to all schools. Peder Hansen said, “The new coding language projects at the elementary schools are a great opportunity for pilot projects.”

Please see the full award list here. 

About the Awards

Eileen Finkel was a longtime educator who strongly supported the innovative and creative ideas of teachers that enrich educational opportunities for children. The Innovative Teaching Award was created to honor her.

The Award is available to any Summit School District teacher or principal who seeks funding support for creative ideas. A committee of Education Foundation of the Summit directors, Summit School District staff, and parents select projects. Creative projects have prior principal approval, and enhanced technology projects are supported by the district’s technology plan.

These awards are made possible through our generous sponsors and donors. We would like to give a special thanks to longtime supporters F Cubed Foundation, The Summit Foundation, the Towns of Silverthorne, Frisco, and Breckenridge, and the Parent/Teacher Associations at all nine schools.

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