ST. LOUIS, MO, November 14, 2011– The St. Louis Public School District has presented the 2011 Center for the Humanities Middle and High School Teachers of the Year to two educators who have made significant and lasting contributions to education.

Mr. Matthew Cashman, a Communication Arts teacher at Gateway Math, Science and Technology Middle School, was recognized as the 2011 Center for the Humanities Middle School Communication Arts Teacher of the Year for his integral role in the increase of student achievement.

Since joining the school, Mr. Cashman’s students, past and present, have increased their reading, some by more than two grade levels. “This is a result of his effective instruction, relationship building, and undeniable compassion for educating children living in urban communities,” said Aisha Grace, principal at Gateway Math, Science and Technology Middle School.  

An educator with the district since 2008, Mr. Cashman serves as the Chairman for the Communication Arts Department at Gateway Math, Science and Technology Middle School. He believes in a standards-based approach to education that includes an emphasis on highly engaging, culturally relevant, and social justice-oriented material that enriches the experience of his students.

Mr. Barrett Taylor, a Communication Arts teacher at Metro Academic and Classical High School, has been named the 2011 Center for the Humanities Middle School Communication Arts Teacher of the Year for his philosophy on Social Reconstructism in the classroom.

“Social Reconstructism can change our students and the system of education. If taught in the correct way, it can make our students think about the work and our society in a different way. Educators need to teach students information that will help them further their lives and education,” said Mr. Taylor.

An educator with the district since 2005, Mr. Taylor was nominated by Mr. Wade Mayham, Jr., Assistant Principal at Metro Academic and Classical High School, for mentoring students, coaching the Track Team, initiating a student exchange program between Rockwood Summit High School and Metro Academic and Classical High School, and serving as a facilitator for professional development.  

As the 2011 Center for the Humanities Middle and High School Teachers of the Year Mr. Cashman and Mr. Taylor have each received a $1,000 check through the St. Louis Public Schools Foundation. They will also each receive two plaques, and a $500 certificate for professional development from the Parsons Blewett Memorial Fund. For more information please contact the Office of Public Information (314) 345-2367.

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