Bob Otten-

I am truly honored and humbled to be not only Sunny Ridge’s Teacher of the Year but also Nampa’s Teacher of the Year. In my years of teaching, I believe that every child can learn and that education is the key that opens the door to a successful life. I also believe that it is important for a child to have a positive self-concept; therefore, I try to develop this throughout the year.

A quote that sums up my belief is by Carl Jung which states: “An understanding heart is everything in a teacher and cannot be esteemed highly enough. One looks back to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feeling. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.”

Sunny Ridge Elementary is an outstanding school with a wealth of knowledge that benefits every student. The 28 certified staff have a remarkable 580 years of teaching experience, 391 of these years are in the Nampa School District with 280 years here at Sunny Ridge. Fourteen of these twenty-eight educators have master’s degrees. Sunny Ridge’s 7 classified staff that works closely with the students and teachers has an amazing 42 years of experience working with children. With all the background knowledge that these individuals bring, teachers utilize the curriculum to its fullest potential. They engage students with quality instructional strategies, and manage a positive atmosphere for learning.