Delaware County Council recently honored two distinguished educators for their excellence in teaching and administration, during the council meeting. Mr. Leon Smith, a Haverford High School educator, tapped as Pennsylvania's Teacher of the Year, an accolade bestowed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education; Dr. Tina Kane, leading the Marple Newtown School District, clinched the title of Pennsylvania's Superintendent of the Year, courtesy of an accolade from the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators, according to an official release from Delaware County.
Both recipients are from Delaware County, which is significant given the number of counties across the state, and their awards contribute to a sense of pride throughout the county. Mr. Smith's focus on social studies and African American studies over two decades has influenced his students and prompted discussions on representation in education. In a statement obtained by Delaware County, he emphasized the role of educators, "We really need to elevate the profession. Right now, we’re in a teacher shortage, and it’s vital that we inspire the next generation of teachers." Dr. Kane, with upwards of thirty years in the field of education, has seen her role evolve from a teacher to a principal, and now to a superintendent, she has spearheaded significant advancements in both STEM and social-emotional learning.
Dr. Kane, reflecting her roots as a product of the Delaware County educational system and now its steward, told Delaware County, "This award is especially meaningful because Delaware County is home to me. I was born and raised here, a proud graduate of Marple Newtown High School, and now have the privilege of serving the very community that shaped me." The acknowledgment of both individuals highlights the ongoing dedication to educational excellence throughout the county.
The celebrations also provided an avenue to highlight Delaware County's investment in future educators through the Teacher Education Program (TEP), this initiative offers high school juniors up to 38 college credits at no cost, combining early exposure, college-level coursework, and hands-on teaching experience, Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor stressed the importance of the program, "As someone deeply invested in the education and advancement of our community, I find it essential to highlight programs like TEP, which create a pipeline of future educators and ensure we continue to build a strong foundation for students across the county," this in her statement to Delaware County.
Delaware County's recognition of Mr. Smith and Dr. Kane acknowledges their individual achievements and reflects the region's focus on supporting excellence and innovation in education. The County Council offers its congratulations to both, a sentiment shared by the Delaware County community in recognizing their contributions. For more information on the honorees and the Teacher Education Program, visit the official Delaware County.
