Spanish Teacher and Language Department Chair Abelardo Almaz谩n-V谩zquez received a 2025 Distinguished Teacher Award from the Vermont Foreign Language Association. Part of the Vermont Organization of Classics and Language Educators (VOCALE), each year the organization honors an outstanding World Language teacher in the state.
鈥淎lthough one of my school鈥檚 fundamental beliefs is ‘to work not for badges and honors,’ I am sincerely grateful,鈥� Almaz谩n-V谩zquez said. 鈥淭his achievement in my teaching career presents an opportunity to continue connecting, collaborating, and learning alongside inspiring educators. I hope to continue lending a hand to the community at large and not just teaching in an “ivory tower.”
The organization looks for those who are innovative, creative, and reflective in their practice, strive for professional growth, inspire and encourage students to become active global citizens, share expertise with colleagues, and exceed professional expectations.
鈥淚n addition to his dedicated work in the classroom, where students learn Spanish language and hispanohablante culture in a variety of authentic ways, Abelardo also serves his school as a soccer coach and dorm parent, among other titles,鈥� VOCALE said in a press release. 鈥淗is colleagues state that 鈥榮tudents are centered and seen in Abelardo鈥檚 classroom,鈥� and 鈥榩eople talk about identity and work-life balance, but Abelardo is a teacher to the bone.鈥�
鈥淗is work on the school鈥檚 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee demonstrates his commitment to his school鈥檚 student body and community as a whole. It is an honor to present Abelardo with the Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award, and we at VOCALE congratulate him on his deep and meaningful work.鈥�