BOSTON - Jae Goodwin, a 5th grade teacher at Framingham's Charlotte A. Dunning Elementary School was named the state's 2009-2010 Teacher of the Year. Education officials and legislative leaders both hailed Goodwin for her commitment to excellence and dedication to ensuring that all of her students achieve academic success.

"A teacher's positive contributions extend beyond a particular classroom or academic year, preparing our children for a lifetime of success in school, work, and life," said Governor Deval Patrick. "I congratulate Ms. Goodwin on attaining this high distinction and thank (her) for (her) service to our students and our state."

"Framingham has a reputation of having exceptional teachers," said Representative Pam Richardson D-Framingham. "This achievement speaks volumes about not only Ms. Goodwin's personal commitment to the job but also to the strength of the entire team at the Charlotte Dunning School."

Goodwin, who lives in Framingham, started at the Charlotte A. Dunning School as a parent in 1990, before becoming a kindergarten aide, and then enrolling in master's program. She has taught 5th grade there since 1999. She believes that all students can and will learn, and relies on real life experiences to actively engage students. In an effort to ensure that her students become active learners, she uses technology to enhance her teaching. She has built her own classroom website, writes technology grants for the school, installs interactive whiteboard technology in classrooms, and participates in online projects alongside students across the globe.

"Jae is a dynamic and powerful educator who possesses the gift of being able to engage children in the classroom," wrote Cheryl Pennie, a 4th grade teacher at the Dunning School, in her letter of recommendation. "Jae brings classroom lessons to life with her interdisciplinary way of teaching, constantly integrating technology, problem solving, and multiple intelligences."

The Massachusetts Teacher of the Year is automatically nominated as the state's candidate for National Teacher of the Year. While remaining in the classroom, Goodwin will serve as ambassador to the teaching profession over the next year by making speeches and conducting workshops throughout the state. She succeeds George Watson, who received the state's 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year award.

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