NBHS Teacher Wins Horace Mann Award

Takeru Nagayoshi, a New Bedford High School English teacher, has been awarded the prestigious 2020 Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence, the NEA Foundation announced this week. The NEA Foundation noted the award “recognizes educators for their diligence and dedication to students, colleagues, community, and their profession.”

 The Massachusetts Teachers Association nominated Mr. Nagayoshi for the award. He is also recipient of the 2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.

 In congratulating Mr. Nagayoshi, Superintendent Thomas Anderson stated, “It’s always wonderful to see a member of our faculty being recognized for the great work they do every day. In these most challenging of times for students and teachers, a component of teaching excellence is the creative determination and critical thinking required every day to bridge gaps and remove obstacles to learning. Mr. Nagayoshi embodies this and is truly preparing our students to be the best version of themselves in becoming deep thinkers, changers of the world.”

Bernadette Coelho, Headmaster of New Bedford High School said, “Mr. Nagayoshi guides his students through their work in a way that stimulates thoughtful discussion and deeper understanding. He exemplifies the talent and dedication of our New Bedford High faculty and we sincerely congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.”

 Mr. Nagayoshi is only one of five teachers nationally to be recognized for the award in 2020. Horace Mann Awardees receive $10,000 and special recognition at the NEA Foundation's Salute to Excellence in Education Gala, which is planned to be presented virtually on February 21, 2021. Each honoree will be featured in a mini-documentary video that will premiere at the gala. The NEA Awards Panel will also select one of the finalists to receive the NEA Member Benefits award and $25,000 at the gala.

From New Bedford Public Schools