Ireland teacher honored with $1,000 award - Dubois County Free Press, Inc.

Ireland Second Grade teacher Robin Small joined her 6-year-old daughter Emma and her husband Nathan in the Ireland Gymnasium for the presentation of a $1,000 check.

Jasper — Robin Small of Ireland Elementary School was named a Peabody Energy Leader in Education for the 2013-14 school year, and awarded $1,000 for her dedication and commitment to students.

As a second grade teacher, Small brings new ideas, fresh energy and team spirit to her class and peers. Her positive influence on students helps them succeed as she uses fun techniques to best reach students at all levels, such as small group activities and learning through movement. She is also the assistant coach for the Jasper Middle School Girls Track team and has been involved in developing a physical education program for use in the K-2 grades. After school, she tutors students that need extra help, focusing on making sure they are keeping up with the curriculum.

The Peabody Energy Leaders in Education program rewards dedicated education professionals—from teachers and coaches to librarians and counselors—who inspire and motivate youth to succeed. Award recipients are selected throughout the school year by a committee of top educators and business leaders.

“We are grateful for the inspiration Robin Small provides to her students, and we applaud her leadership within the school community,” said Greg Boyce, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Peabody Energy. “Mrs. Small is to be commended as an individual who excels at her profession and we are pleased to recognize her as a Peabody Energy Leader in Education.’

The Leaders program was developed in Missouri in 2009, and reflects Peabody’s commitment to make a positive impact in the communities where the company’s employees live and work by honoring those who inspire students. The 2013-2014 award program is continuing to accept nominations and is open to educational professionals of public, private and independent schools in designated communities where Peabody Energy employees live and work. Nominations may be made at www.PeabodyEnergyLeadersInEducation.org.

Honorees are selected from a diverse group of educators. They can range from veteran teachers to individuals in support staff roles such as administrators, coaches or counselors. Each 2013-2014 Leader in Education will be honored at an awards gala after this school year, where one will be named Educator of the Year and awarded $5,000.