Reiffton's Health & Physical Education teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Dorta, was named SHAPE PA's Elementary Teacher of the Year following her regional win in the spring and then her state-wide recognition later this year. A teacher in Exeter for 16 years, Mrs. Dorta is known for her enthusiastic and caring teaching style that motivates students to take care of their emotional wellness just as much as their physical health as she creates dynamic lessons for her students and collaborates with her fellow teachers to create cross-curricular learning activities. Presented with the challenges of teaching virtually at the start of the pandemic, Mrs. Dorta harnessed her creativity as she brought themes and corresponding dress-up opportunities, (such as pirate week) to keep her students engaged as they learned from home. "Social and emotional learning is very important to me," she says as she explains that her lessons often refer to the wellness triangle to encourage her students to keep their lives in balance physically, socially and mentally/emotionally.

The SHAPE PA Award stems from the SHAPE America Society of Health and Physical Educators. Every year, this group recognizes teachers from school districts in every state that have shown dedication, commitment and excellence in their school. Mrs. Dorta received her award and recognition at a banquet last month. Congratulations to Mrs. Dorta!