Des Moines, Iowa - Ann Mincks, an English language learning teacher at Des Moines Hoover High School, has been honored as the 2024 Iowa Teacher of the Year by the Iowa Department of Education. The prestigious award was presented to Mincks during a ceremony held on Monday morning at Hoover.

In a news release, McKenzie Snow, the state education director, praised Mincks and the impact she has on her students. Snow highlighted Mincks' expertise in meeting the needs of English language learners and her utilization of the Science of Reading to provide the best support to her students. The recognition of Mincks' dedication and excellence in teaching comes with congratulations from Governor Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Education.

Mincks, 39, has been teaching for 15 years and comes from a family with a strong teaching background, as mentioned in the release. She believes in the transformative power of education and aims to create an experience that goes beyond the confines of the classroom, connecting her students to future successes in their careers and as members of the community.

The finalists for the 2024 Iowa Teacher of the Year award were also announced, showcasing the exceptional educators across the state:

- Daniel Black, a music teacher in the Council Bluffs Community School District
- Thomas Braverman, a special education teacher formerly in the Iowa City Community School District
- Rachel Evanoff, a science teacher in the Dubuque Community School District
- Tiffany Herr, an elementary school teacher in the Norwalk Community School District
- Brenda Kaufmann, an elementary school teacher in the North Tama County Community School District
- Nicole Schroeder, an elementary school teacher in the Saydel Community School District

The Iowa Teacher of the Year award was established in 1958 and continues to recognize outstanding educators who make a significant impact on their students' lives. The annual program is sponsored by the Iowa Department of Education through an appropriation from the Iowa Legislature. Recipients of the award serve as ambassadors, representing their schools, higher education, and communities across the state.

As the 2024 Iowa Teacher of the Year, Ann Mincks joins the distinguished ranks of influential educators who have received this esteemed recognition. Her dedication to meeting the diverse needs of English language learners and her commitment to empowering students to reach their full potential have earned her this well-deserved honor.