Emmett Burnton from Anthem has been named Arizona's Teacher of the Year for the 2024-2025 academic year. He teaches AP World History and U.S. History Dual Enrollment at Boulder Creek High School and has been recognized for his commitment to education over the past nine years. According to ABC15, Burnton has worked to address barriers in Advanced Placement programs, making opportunities accessible to students from various backgrounds, including those with Individualized Education Programs or learning disabilities.
"One thing we take a lot of pride in and one thing we focus on is making it so that AP doesn't have that stigma about 'only the smart kids,'" Burnton explained to ABC15 and cited by 12News, alongside his teaching duties, Burnton has launched a business focused on redefining the world history curriculum, demonstrating his contributions to educational innovation.
The title includes various experiences, such as the opportunity to meet the President of the United States, train at Google headquarters, and participate in astronaut training at the International Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama. Burnton will also be considered for an honorary doctorate from Northern Arizona University, as per 12News.
In addition to his classroom responsibilities, Burnton sponsors the anime club and the culture club, and co-leads the Advanced Placement professional learning community for history at Boulder Creek. His involvement both inside and outside the classroom meets the criteria for the award, which recognizes teachers who demonstrate educational excellence and serve as role models for students in the community. "We are so proud of each and every one of them," Kim Graham, CEO of the Arizona Educational Foundation, told 12News.
