Teacher of the Year

WorldStrides Teacher of the Year: Michelle Bennett

In honor of  Teacher Appreciation Week, WorldStrides will be showcasing our five Teacher of the Year recipients. These teachers have gone above and beyond, inside of the classroom and out. We are thrilled to honor them for their commitment to students and share their stories!

Our first recipient is Michelle Bennett from Jamestown Elementary School in Jamestown, CA. Michelle teaches sixth and seventh grade English and Social Studies. She is a dedicated teacher with a passion for traveling. Since 2016, Michelle has taken students across the country to Washington, D.C. and New York.

Michelle believes in the opportunity to take her kids out of their low-income area to experience life outside of their normal routine. She believes it gives them the opportunity to see what they can do with their future.

“Michelle always goes above and beyond for her kids. She will stay late after school so the kids have a safe place to stay. She takes on all extra roles and very involved in school,” said nominator Angela Encinias. “She is in charge of leadership, yearbook, dances, fundraising, Saturday school, and lots more. She has tons of energy and enthusiasm and does it all for the kids. She makes such a huge difference at this school and in our kids’ future.”

She works endlessly on fundraising events to help her families. They have hosted a color run, sold candles and pies, raffled household appliances, and hosted pizza and ice cream nights at local venues. This year, she has fundraised approximately 25% of their trip cost.

Michelle was nominated by multiple parents and students. Her dedication to her students and her passion for learning is beyond admirable.

Congratulations Michelle!

With the help of Michelle’s principal, we surprised her with this news with a phone call from WorldStrides CEO Jim Hall. Watch the video of our live surprise!