09-04-2025
Indian Trail educator named NC Teacher of the Year
INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A local teacher was named North Carolina's Teacher of the Year by Teachers of Tomorrow, the nation's top alternative teacher certification program.
Victoria Kauffman is an arts teacher at Cuthbertson High School.
'As a dedicated and passionate Theater Arts teacher, Victoria creates an inclusive, engaging, and intellectually stimulating learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered,' said mentor Ashley Bayer, who nominated Kauffman. 'Victoria's classroom is a space where all students—regardless of background, ability, or experience—are welcomed and encouraged to express themselves. She fosters a culture of belonging, ensuring that every student's voice is heard and respected.'
'As a theater teacher, theater mom, director and performer myself, I think of teaching as the ROLE of a lifetime! Teaching Theatre Arts is more than the subject matter,' said Kauffman. 'I am teaching applicable, marketable skills like collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking, and most importantly confidence and self-expression. I adore sharing my love of theater with my students, and I love even more being a part of their journey as a mentor and guide to adulthood!'
Teachers for Tomorrow operates in several states, recognizing the brightest educators through its Teacher of the Year competition. The program features teachers nominated by school principals and ToT field supervisors across Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.
State winners received a $500 award for classroom supplies and professional development.
But that's not all.
Each state winner advances as a finalist for the National Teacher of the Year competition, where the winner, chosen by a public vote, will receive a $5,000 prize.
Voting ends April 18. The winner will be announced during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9).
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