"As a product of CareerTech who began my own nursing journey in a Practical Nursing program, I know firsthand the impact CareerTech can have on a person’s future."
Francis Tuttle Technology Center staff received several awards and honors at this year’s Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education Summit Conference.
Tyler Bell, instructor in the Practical Nursing training program, was named New Teacher of the Year. Bell has been an instructor at Francis Tuttle since 2022.
“Receiving the New Teacher of the Year Award is incredibly meaningful to me,” Bell said. “As a product of CareerTech who began my own nursing journey in a Practical Nursing program, I know firsthand the impact CareerTech can have on a person’s future. Now, having the opportunity to help shape that same future for my students makes this recognition even more special.
“I am also incredibly thankful for my husband and daughter, whose encouragement, patience, and support have been with me every step of the way. Their belief in me continues to inspire me to grow as an educator and make a lasting difference in the lives of my students. I am equally grateful to Francis Tuttle for investing in my growth, believing in my potential, and providing opportunities that have helped shape me into the educator I am today.”
Project HOPE Principal Randa Pirrong won this year’s Kaleidoscope Award. The award recognizes an individual whose work or actions has promoted the equal opportunity for students to learn and grow in their academic setting.
Project HOPE is Francis Tuttle’s high school dropout retrieval program that helps students get back on track and complete their education. While learning, students also spend part of their day in a Career Training Program at Francis Tuttle, where they acquire job-ready skills.
Pirrong has overseen the relocation of Project HOPE on the Francis Tuttle Rockwell Campus to a new building with classroom and common spaces specifically designed for students. The program is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Professional Development Coordinator Erin Bellamy was recognized as the OkACTE Outstanding New Professional. Bellamy serves the Francis Tuttle district by coordinating training, seminars, and learning opportunities for both instructional and non-instructional staff.
Chef Bill Leib, Culinary Arts instructor, and Derek Dodd, math instructor in the Biosciences and Medicine Academy, were named OkACTE Fellows. The OkACTE Fellowship program offers training and experience to instructors to further develop their leadership skills and grow their knowledge of how education policy is decided.
Business Marketing and Management Instructor Abby Williams and Broadcast and Video Production Instructor Dana Hertneky were recognized by their division, Business, Marketing and Information Technology (BMITE). Williams was named the BMITE Teacher of the Year, while Hertneky was named New Teacher of the Year.