Teacher of the Year 2015 - Rachel MacDonald

Fulton Homes News

Teacher Of The Week 2014 2015

Fulton Homes Names Vistancia Elementary Educator
as its 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year

Rachel MacDonald still dealing with student's untimely death last fall

Teacher Of The Year 2015 Rachel MacDonald

On Oct. 14, 2014, Vistancia Elementary first-grader Luke Smith died after suffering a sudden and serious respiratory illness. Luke was a student in Rachel MacDonald's first-grade classroom. While the entire Peoria community was reeling from the young student's death, MacDonald had to deal with her own sadness, as well as the grief of her students. Some frightened parents pulled their children out of school. However, MacDonald remained every day and loved and supported the children who were there, and made sure they were cared for while they all were grieving. A photo of Luke Smith still hangs on MacDonald's classroom wall.

For her dedication to her students and their families during this difficult school year, Fulton Homes has chosen Rachel MacDonald as its Teacher of the Year for the 2014-2015 school year. MacDonald was presented with $1,000 and other prizes at a May 11 ceremonial luncheon held at the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale. MacDonald was one of the more than 30 weekly Teacher of the Week winners this school year. MacDonald was nominated for the honor by parent Jennae Porter.

For the 15th consecutive year Fulton Homes recognized Phoenix Valley school teachers through the Teacher of the Week program. Throughout the school year the program showcased teachers who inspired their students. Both students and parents nominated their favorite educator each week.

"Rachel MacDonald has been their emotional rock when she herself was barely able to contain her own sadness," Porter said.

"It's a privilege to honor such a wonderful and loving teacher as Rachel MacDonald as our Teacher of the Year," said Fulton Homes CEO Doug Fulton. "Rachel continues to be there for her students and their parents. We recognize Rachel's dedication to her young students and her school."

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