After filling out the rigorous Teacher on the Trail application, the following teachers were selected by the Iditarod Education Committee as our finalists.

Kari Wright is a 3rd Grade teacher from Osage, IA. Kari has been using the Iditarod in the classroom since 2006 when she read an article about the race. “Whatever the age, it has been a valuable tool, one they look forward to, and one they prepare younger siblings for. Rarely do we find something so unique that makes students want to learn more regardless of the subject or the activity. The Iditarod is that for my classroom of students.”

From Manchester, TN, Kari Lawson teaches 4th Grade English/Language Arts and Social Studies. She first learned about the Iditarod as a school teacher at the Iditarod checkpoint of Skwentna. “The Iditarod ignites an excitement in learning during a time in the school year when many students are falling into a rut. It motivates them to persevere and rejuvenates their excitement for learning. The IditaRead challenge especially motivates those readers who may have become a bit stagnant through the course of the year. Learning about the Iditarod helps students build background knowledge to the wide world around them.”

Jackie Denton from Ligonier, IN is a 7th Grade teacher who teaches science through the Indiana Digital Learning School. She not only has been teaching the Iditarod for several years, but has been a volunteer during the race. “I have taught at elementary, middle and high school levels and have always used the excitement about the race to enhance my curriculum. I also use it school-wide to bring awareness to students who may not have heard of it.”

We welcome all 3 of these dedicated teachers to our Iditarod family. Congratulations!

               Kari Wright                                                           Kari Lawson                                                   Jackie Denton