A former Fayette County teacher of the year now can add another title to her name. The Council for the Social Studies has named Jan Daniel of Fayette County High Outstanding Social Studies Educator of the Year.

Daniel, a 24-year veteran teacher, currently teaches Psychology and Advanced Placement Psychology but has previously taught US History, AP History, World History, Geography, Economics and Sociology. She has received high praise, recognition and honors from colleagues, parents, organizations, and most importantly, from students.

Her excellent teaching strategies, dedication to students, and contributions to social studies education earned her the educator of the year award. Although many educators are excellent practitioners, Daniel goes beyond the normal school day for her students and colleagues. She is a teacher who inspires all students by using a wide variety of teaching strategies.

Her incredible dedication to her students is evident in that 98 percent of them in the past 10 years have passed the AP Psychology Exam. Even more impressive is that for several years her students have had a 100 percent pass rate on the same exam.

She has made tremendous contributions to Social Studies education as she has presented at conferences and conducted workshops, written manuals and served in leadership roles.

Daniel is also involved in community service, a very important aspect of social studies education. After hearing about a Fayette County student who needed a bone marrow transplant, she went to be tested. She did not match that student but two years later was a match for another person with cancer and made the bone marrow donation.

As the sponsor of many clubs throughout her career, she has inspired students who have followed in her footsteps and given back to the community. Her students have collected toys and clothes for children and donated money to buy books on tape for children in a hospice.

Social Studies Coordinator Cathy Geis nominated Daniel for the award. Simply put, Geis said, “I nominated her because she is an excellent social studies teacher.”

Daniel was presented with the award at the annual Council for the Social Studies Conference in October.

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