Ms. Kelly Dowell was recently announced as Glen Rock High School’s Teacher of the Year.

“Well I was very surprised, thankful and appreciative,” Dowell said. “I respect that it is a nice honor and I am happy. I accept the award humbly.”

Dowell has been teaching physical education for 13 years in the district. In addition to teaching, she is also the varsity softball coach and junior varsity tennis coach.

She describes herself as a team player who is not focused on her individual abilities.

“I practice what I preach and hopefully that behavior comes around to the students. All of my accomplishments are evident in the eyes of my peers,” Dowell explained. “I have a passion for teaching and hopefully that is evident.”

From the beginning, Dowell knew she wanted to teach physical education at the high school level because she loves witnessing the accomplishments the students achieve from freshman to senior year and interacting with the students. She also tries to hardest to be involved with the middle school as well.

“I am very fortunate for the graduates that come back and communicate with me,” Dowell said. “I have always loved to be active and healthy. I do the best I can to portray that to the young minds so they take care of themselves.”

In celebration, Mr. Arlotta gave Dowell flowers and Mrs. Paul made congratulatory signs hung up in the senior hallway and sports lobby. Dowell will be attending a luncheon with all of the Bergen County Teachers of the Year.

“It means a lot to me to be recognized for something that has a wonderful honor to it. I am very appreciative and I feel very fortunate because I am very happy where I work,” Dowell said. “I say this a lot but the students here in this school make it a very enjoyable place to work plus all the coworkers I have.”