10 Apr 2009
Named 2009 MetLife Foundation Ambassador In Education
DALLAS—Dallas ISD teacher Bobby Simmons has been selected by the National Civic League as a winner of the 2009 MetLife Foundation Ambassadors In Education award. Simmons was one of only 25 winners selected nationwide for leadership in building bridges between local schools and communities and will receive a $5,000 grant for his school.
A former firefighter and an active community leader, Bobby Simmons is a teacher at the School for the Talented and Gifted at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center who encourages his students to be involved in many ways, including volunteering for local food and clothing drives or discussing public service with prominent leaders. He begins every class period with current events discussions and always announces service opportunities that are available.
The award is designed to recognize educators whose influence can be felt beyond the classrooms and hallways, by recognizing educators who: build partnerships with community organizations, parents, and guardians; resolve conflicts and promote safety; and participate in civic engagement and community service efforts. Middle and high school educators in participating public school districts are eligible, and are nominated by peers, parents, students or community members and selected by a national panel of education and civic experts.
The Ambassadors In Education award was established in 2003, after MetLife's annual Survey of the American Teacher identified a growing gap between public schools and their communities.
MetLife Foundation, established in 1976, supports education, health, civic and cultural programs throughout the United States. In education, it places particular emphasis on initiatives that improve public schools, develop the leadership of teachers and principals, and involve parents and communities.
The National Civic League, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization devoted to community building and strengthening local democracy, administers the program. With the 2009 awards, this program has recognized 140 Ambassadors In Education with $700,000 in grants.
For more information about the Ambassadors In Education Award visit www.ncl.org/metlife.
We believe that engaged parents and guardians impact a student's academic and personal development is the sixth core belief adopted by the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees.