NEW Award Announcement:

Excellence in Teaching Russian at K-12 Level in Community-Based and Online After-School, Weekend, and Summer Programs

ACTR is pleased to announce a new award recognizing outstanding educators who teach Russian to K-12 students in community-based settings. This award honors instructors working in community-based Russian language institutions, including both in-person and online schools and camps (after-school/weekend/summer) at the elementary, middle, or high school level.

Eligibility

• The nominee must be a current member of ACTR
• The nominee must have taught Russian language courses for at least five (5) years
• This award is open to instructors teaching Russian in structured community-based educational programs (private Russian tutorials and tutoring services do not qualify)
• Candidates can be nominated by anyone, including a colleague, supervisor, or private individual
• Only one nomination will be accepted from each nominator 

Requirements for Teacher Nomination ~ Criteria of Excellence
 
Teacher Knowledge and Application of Subject Matter

• Uses their knowledge of Russian and the cultures of the Russian-speaking world to involve and direct students in meaningful language learning and acquisition.
• Uses standards-based and proficiency-based instruction to foster and facilitate the learning of language and culture.

• Demonstrates a clear commitment to their students’ learning.
• Develops student proficiencies in Russian language and increases their cultural understanding.
  
• Creates an inclusive, caring, and challenging learning environment that is contextually appropriate and reflective of real-life situations.
• Fosters critical and creative thinking in students by developing an awareness of the diverse perspectives that exist within and between various cultures.
• Sets equitable goals, which assure that all students have the opportunity to learn.
• Uses differentiated instruction to meet various students’ learning needs.
• Actively engages in language and culture related extra and co-curricular activities and/or advising.

• Values each student as an individual.
• Encourages open communication with students and parents.
• Promotes all students' success.

• Demonstrates continuous professional development and growth in the subject area and teaching strategies.
• Collaborates with all necessary stakeholders in developing curricula and assessment tools to ensure student success.
• Shares knowledge and expertise through conference presentations, workshops, etc.
• Active involvement in a professional organization and/or community outreach to promote language and culture.