Otstot gets praise for commitment

SCOTTSDALE - The Scottsdale Unified School District is highlighting Zuni Elementary School pre-school teacher Michelle Otstot.

Here's what parent Phil Elliot had to say about her:

Michelle is one of those rare individuals who not only make a difference in the lives of the children they teach, but also raise the level of competence of the entire institution. Michelle's early childhood teaching method, combining traditional educational philosophy with Montessori technique, creates an environment in which children learn to read and write rapidly. The problem parents face at the end of the school year is that their children typically are more advanced than the next grade level to which they are promoted. As parents, we love this special teacher who gives all she has from the heart and inspires us to encourage and participate in our children's educational experience. This is a special person.

Achievements: Graduate of Gov. Janet Napolitano's Emergent Leader Program for education, master's of education in special education, master's of education in Montessori.

Number of years teaching: 12.

Number of years at district: 1.

Number of years at Zuni: 1.

Professional Memberships: American Montessori Society.

Becky Kelbaugh is a communication support specialist for the Scottsdale Unified School District. To nominate a Scottsdale teacher, log on to susd.org.