Riverview School District is pleased to announce Mr. Kenneth Kubistek, a social studies teacher at Riverview Junior-Senior High School, was recently nominated for the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year Award in the senior division of the National History Day (NHD) National Contest.
According to NHD, the teachers nominated for this national award demonstrate “a commitment to engaging students in historical learning through innovative use of primary sources, implementation of active learning strategies to foster historical thinking skills, and participation in the National History Day Contest.”
There are 58 NHD affiliates in North America, Central America and Asia. Mr. Kubistek was chosen as the senior division nominee from Pennsylvania. The winner will be awarded $10,000 in addition to the distinction. Nominees receive $500.
“The nominees for the Behring Award have shown a dedication to teaching that goes beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Cathy Gorn, National History Day Executive Director. “These educators are leading examples for their peers and invaluable resources for their students. I congratulate Mr. Kubistek on his well-deserved nomination.”
Kubistek has taught history for more than 23 years and coordinates several student enrichment programs and clubs at Riverview School District.
“Mr. Kubistek’s efforts have been critical to the development of our National History Day and Model UN programs at Riverview,” said Riverview School District Superintendent Dr. Neil English. “His hard work, dedication, and continued efforts are appreciated by the school community and continue to be successful, award-winning marquis programs in the District.”
Kubistek said the NHD has helped open his students’ minds toward the past.
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized by National History Day, an organization that has brought so much learning and fun to many of my students and my own children over the past 20 years,” he said.
“I began sponsoring National History Day because it was a fun way for students to research an event in history that they found interesting.Over the years, my support of and belief in the program has grown because it enables students to develop 21st Century Skills. It also encourages interactions with others who share a love for history,” Kubistek added.
The national winner of the award will be announced at the NHD National Contest Virtual Awards Ceremony on June 19.
Good luck, Mr. Kubistek! You make Riverview proud!