American Sign Language teacher Traci Prather will join 39 other Regional Teachers of the Year to represent Region 16 in Austin, Oct. 29 and 30 at the State Teacher of the Year celebration.

Prather was named Region 16 Secondary Teacher of the Year Aug. 20 at the Regional Service Center in Amarillo. Prather was selected from among ???? regional finalists.

“I was surprised, then excited, then shocked,” Prather said.

To compete at the regional level, Prather had to submit a 13-page application, including nine pages of essay responses.

“I had to write essays on philosophy of teaching, trends and issues in education, and what I would do if I were to become the National Teacher of the Year,” Prather said. “I also had to provide information about my background and involvement in the community.”

Six finalists have been selected for consideration as the State Teacher of the Year. Both elementary and secondary state winners will be chosen with one of those advancing to represent Texas in the national competition.