CEA-Advisor_April-2023-issue_web

12 CEA ADVISOR APRIL 2023

PHYSICS TEACHER HAILED AS A FORCE FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION Stratford’s Kristen Record inducted into National Teachers Hall of Fame

Stratford physics teacher and Connecticut 2011 Teacher of the Year Kristen Record is no stranger to the spotlight. A fierce advocate for her colleagues and students, she has appeared in countless television interviews, CEA social media campaigns, and legislative hearing rooms pushing for better funding and protections for teachers and students. Still, when the cameras rolled on March 16 at Bunnell High School, Record received the surprise of a lifetime. Surrounded by colleagues, family, and friends, the 23-year veteran was inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. “Kristen is a creative educator and a shining example of the incredible teachers in classrooms across Connecticut,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “She is an outspoken union leader and a passionate and enthusiastic ambassador for her students, her colleagues, and the teaching profession. A strong believer that learning should be relevant, she uses her expertise to create fun, exciting lessons that help students understand how physics impacts their everyday lives.” The Teachers Hall of Fame celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding educators whose commitment to excellence raises public awareness of the vital role they play in today’s society. “This is a prestigious honor among a host of other spectacular accomplishments over Kristen’s career, and we couldn’t be prouder,” said CEA Vice President Joslyn DeLancey. Big bang Record is one of only five educators selected for the National Teachers Hall of Fame class of 2023, the 31st class inducted into the program. “There’s no bigger honor I could imagine,” said Record. “I was nominated by a colleague for whom I have tremendous respect—someone I have sought to emulate—and I am joining other teachers from Connecticut I consider role models and teacher leaders.” Record was nominated by State Representative Chris Poulos, a 2022 National Teachers Hall of Fame inductee and 2007 Connecticut Teacher of the Year who teaches Spanish at Joel Barlow High School. “Kristen is respected throughout our state and nation,” said Poulos. “She continuously strives to elevate the teaching profession by providing

opportunities for educators to enrich their practice and advocacy skills. Kristen recognizes that student well being and academic growth are deeply influenced by ongoing teacher empowerment.” “This honor shines a light on my community and the excellence that exists in the school district, because I really

Stratford physics teacher Kristen Record, the newest inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, is congratulated by Stratford Education Association Elementary Vice President Robin Julian and President Michael Fiorello.

“She is always engaged with students and explains ideas and concepts in a variety of ways, making sure we all understand the lessons,” said junior Cassidy Battaglio. “She allows us to break into groups to collaborate on topics, which is beneficial, and she meets with every group to ensure that we fully understand the concepts.” “Ms. Record deserves this honor,” fellow junior Ashlin Lopez agreed. “We have deep discussions, and I feel comfortable talking about anything in her class and sharing anything.” Dr. Katie Graf, Bunnell High School principal, said, “Kristen regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty and has dedicated her entire adult life to teaching high school science. She holds her students to high expectations; she also recognizes the growing needs of our diverse, transient population and supports students through differentiation, scaffolding, and extra help sessions.” Record followed in the footsteps of her parents, Daniel and Carolyn, who taught in Portland, Cromwell, and Haddam-Killingworth for a combined 75 years before retiring in 2012. Her brother Dan and sister-in-law are also Connecticut teachers, and her niece is an aspiring educator. Kristen’s passion for teaching started early. “When she was four, she would line up her stuffed animals like they were in a classroom, and she would teach them,” said her father. “One of the greatest honors in my life was to have Kristen in my AP physics class. Her mother and I encouraged her to be the best she can be and to exceed what we have accomplished, and she has done that. This is a lifetime achievement, and we are so very proud of her.” Record will attend formal induction ceremonies in Washington, D.C., in May and in Emporia, Kansas, in June.

believe that you can only be as good the people you surround yourself with,” said Record. “I may be the one who achieved this recognition, but it only happened because I have always been surrounded by excellence in the school district.” Record is the sixth Connecticut teacher to be inducted into the national program, following in the footsteps of Poulos and Dr. David Bosso, a Berlin High School social studies teacher and 2012 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, who became a National Teachers Hall of Famer in 2019. Bosso made the announcement, saying, “I have witnessed your dedication to our profession, and your commitment to your students and school community have been abundantly evident. May your selection to the National Teachers Hall of Fame stand as an example to all, representing what can be achieved by doing what you love and giving of yourself for the growth and well-being of your students.” Kinetic energy “Kristen’s passion for physics is infectious, but more importantly, she cares about young people, their struggles, and their achievements,” said colleague and Stratford Education Association President Michael Fiorello. “Her tireless advocacy for the profession is in no way at odds with her advocacy for students. She understands that in order for students to feel safe to take intellectual risks, teachers need to be valued, respected, and trusted to try new things.” Record’s students appreciate her dedication and support. “I am lucky to have her as a teacher. She is passionate about everything she teaches and helps us all understand the materials,” said Grace Caldwell, a Bunnell senior.

“When I sit here in the morning and bring you the news,” says Channel 3 Eyewitness News anchor Wendell Edwards, “it’s because of a teacher.” “When I have the courage to try something new,” fellow anchor Mark Zinni adds, “it’s because of a teacher.” Writing. Reading. Arithmetic. Science. Ticking off subjects he’s studied, meteorologist Scot Haney credits teachers with imparting the skills he uses to formulate weather forecasts. WFSB traffic anchor Caitlyn Francis gives a similar shoutout to educators in Ellington, who, she says, “taught me to work hard and shine bright, no matter the obstacles.” Hear from more on-air reporters about the teachers who inspired them, along with where and how, in these fun, new 30-second PSAs! Visit cea.org/becauseofateacher . ANCHORS A-WEIGH IN News crew thanks teachers for getting them where they are

Eyewitness News Anchor Wendell Edwards

Anchor