Rubio finalist for POE award

Thirty-six educators, support professionals and administrators, along with two schools, will be honored as finalists for the Excellence in Education Merit and Character Awards by the Professional Oklahoma Educators Foundation in Oklahoma City.

The Excellence in Education Awards Banquet recognizes and rewards Oklahoma educators who demonstrate a commitment to their students in teaching strength of character and excellence in the school or classroom. Award nominees must go through a rigorous application and evaluation process.

According to POE Foundation Executive Director Ginger Tinney, “These awards serve as an encouragement to not only Oklahoma educators, but also to the many businesses, organizations, and communities that have a stake in the character building and intellectual development of the children who will shape our state in the future.”

Rebecca Rubio of Bennington Public Schools won the High School Educator Merit award. A math and algebra teacher, Rubio believes students will perform better for people who they feel believe in them. She has devoted her life to helping children not only in math and algebra but also with positive attitudes and an open outlook on the world. Rubio is a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

“She is always prepared for class and really keeps the students engaged,” said Rich Grimes, principal of Bennington High School. “She uses different styles of teaching so that all of her students have the optimal chance of learning the material.”

As a Merit Award winner, Rubio received a check for $500, a free POE membership and a commendation from Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell.