Fulton Homes

This week's Fulton Homes 'Teacher of the Week' winner shows there's more than meets the eye when it comes to being a first-rate teacher, as well as a mother. Those who know Tricia Welch, a kindergarten teacher at Coyote Ridge Elementary in Glendale, say she serves as a second mom to the students she teaches. They add she incorporates discipline and knowledge into her lesson plans, which creates a strong foundation for her students while they mature.

Her daughter, 15-year-old Madison, a high school sophomore, and her two sons nominated her as 'Teacher of the Week'. Madison said her mother has taught her students and the three of them to love, respect and appreciate education. Her passion and commitment to the students and parents at the school reflects in the young children's development and progress, she added.

"I know there are a lot of great moms and teachers, but we are fortunate our mom is both," Madison said.

Welch's kids say she brings her compassion for teaching home by helping them with homework and expanding their learning. After homework is done and the kids are home from weekly activities, they say she continues to commit herself to education and being a superb mother. She works another part-time job to make sure her children can participate in cheer, baseball and football, to provide them with a well-rounded education.

"It's important that educators are dedicated to their students just as much as they are dedicated to life at home," Fulton Homes CEO Douglas Fulton said. "Tricia Welch is a great example of how a proper education enhances a child's belief of the importance of learning."

Fulton Homes invites students and peers across the Valley to recognize those teachers who make a difference in other's lives with the 12th Annual Fulton Homes Teacher of the Week program, in partnership with KNIX Country Radio. The popular program, which serves to honor outstanding educators, continues throughout the school year, ending in June of 2012.

Teachers nominated will be entered for a chance to win a prize package that includes $300 in cash plus prizes from Fulton Homes and the Dairy Council of Arizona. The winning teacher will be surprised and presented the award by KNIX radio personality, Carolyn Coffey. Recipients of the award will also be spotlighted on the KNIX Morning Show with Ben and Matt, where they will receive special recognition on their Friday show between 6:20 - 7:20 a.m.

At the end of the school year, in June of 2012, the 34 winning teachers will be honored at a special luncheon, where one outstanding teacher will be chosen as the Fulton Homes "Teacher of the Year." Students can nominate their favorite teacher for Fulton Homes' Teacher of the Week by submitting a brief form at any Fulton Homes location or online at knixcountry.com. Winners are chosen based on their commitment to education, career achievements and impact on students' lives.

For more information about Fulton Homes Teacher of the Week, visit www.fultonhomes.com and click on the Fulton Foundation link, or visit knixcountry.com, keyword "Teacher."