Dover, Hampton, Stratham teachers semifinalists for NH’s top award

CONCORD — Five Seacoast teachers are among the 15 semi-finalists in the running for the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year Award.

The New Hampshire Department of Education announced the semi-finalist Tuesday.

Representing the Seacoast were Dover High School biology teacher Amy Poirier, Marston School of Hampton fourth-grade teacher Jason Schrack, Barrington Middle School social studies teacher Jeff Durrell, Sanborn Regional High School unified arts teacher Brian Gray and Stratham Cooperative Middle School special education teacher Kim Houghtaling.

The teachers, according to the state Department of Education, were selected from a total of 251 nominees and 76 applicants.

“We are honored to announce our 15 semi-finalists – a group of talented educators that truly represent some of the best teachers working in New Hampshire schools," said Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner of education. "It is apparent that these semi-finalists are committed to academic excellence and the overall well-being of their students, and it will be exciting getting to know them better throughout this selection process.”

Other semi-finalists were Chelsea Barrett Viera of Highland-Goffes Falls Elementary in Manchester, Michele Brezovec of South Meadow School in Peterborough, Kristen Dacey of Dr. Lewis F. Soule Elementary School in Salem, Candice DeAngelis of Bedford High School in Bedford, Amy Doolin of Newfound Regional High School in Bristol, Rebecca Fortgang of Fall Mountain Regional High School in Langdon, Nicole Gammella of Middle School at Parkside in Manchester, Matt Holland of White Mountain Regional High School in Whitefield, and Laura McKenna of Mill Brook School in Concord.

Manchester School District Superintendent Jennifer Gillis said she was thrilled to learn they had two educators advancing in the selection process for Teacher of the Year.

“While we are aware of the amazing teachers we have within the district, it is even more incredible to see the contributions of two of our teachers recognized at the state level," said Gillis. "We are eager to watch the selection process progress and wish Chelsea and Nicole the very best in the balance of this process.”

Commissioner Frank Edelblut congratulated the 15 semi-finalists for their "devotion and perseverance in the classroom.”

"Our cohort of semi-finalists are not only fostering positive learning environments, but they are motivating both their peers and students to take risks, improve outcomes and create a sense of school community," he said.

A final recipient will be selected this fall. The 2025 Teacher of the Year will be New Hampshire’s entrant in the National Teacher of the Year program, which is run by the Council of Chief State School Officers.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Five Seacoast teachers among semi-finalists for NH Teacher of the Year