Dan Derby, Bridgeway Elementary fifth grade teacher and Pattonville's current Teacher of the Year, has been named by Emerson as a 2020 Excellence in Teaching Award honoree. He is one of 100 educators across the St. Louis metropolitan region recognized this year for demonstrating excellence in education and exceptional dedication to students.
The annual program recognizes St. Louis area instructors, selected by their schools’ administrators, for their accomplishments and dedication to their students and the teaching profession.
“More than ever, in this environment affected by COVID-19, Emerson is proud to champion the critical role of teachers in guiding and shaping the lives of young people in our community,” said David J. Rabe, vice president of corporate social responsibility for Emerson. “With the Excellence in Teaching Awards, we celebrate the achievements and commitment of teachers across the St. Louis region who truly demonstrate excellence in education as they support students with their time and talents.”
The Excellence in Teaching Awards program began in St. Louis in 1989 and is sponsored annually by Emerson, the St. Louis-headquartered global technology and engineering company. The Excellence in Teaching Award recipients who teach grades kindergarten through high school also have the opportunity to apply for a Gold Star Grant from Emerson. These competitive grants fund educational projects that reflect the key pillars of Emerson’s identity – technology, innovation and leadership. Since 2006, Emerson has awarded $689,000 to area teachers and schools through its Gold Star Grant program.
Promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is a key tenet of Emerson. Nationwide, Emerson donated $8.3 million in 2019 to support the development and training of future generations through schools, universities and related education programs.