Teacher is honored by former student

Teachers touch student’s lives in ways that are both big and small. For English teacher, Jenni Baldwin, her moment of connection came during her freshmen English class. "I only taught Diya Mishra as a freshman, but she grew a lot during that year and we had a great connection. She stayed in touch during the three years that followed and kept me in the loop with her successes at school and in volleyball," says Baldwin.

Baldwin was contacted by the University of Chicago after Mishra ('22) nominated her as part of the University's Outstanding Educator Awards. “I was so touched that Diya submitted my name for this award. Diya is an example of why I love teaching at Overlake. I get to teach a wide range of students who go on to become these amazing people out in the world. I love seeing my students light up when they discover or lean into their talents and find something they love as much as I love teaching.”

This is not the first time a student has nominated Baldwin for an award. Eight years ago she was nominated by some Overlake students and won the award of Teacher of the Year for Redmond.

Congratulations Jenni. You can view past honorees here.