Teacher Awarded with a $2,500 Five Day Cruise During Summer of 2018
San Antonio, TX: Special education teacher Olivia Hayes of Brandeis High School has been chosen for Hallmark University’s “Outstanding Educator of the Year 2018” award. The award itself consists of a $2,500 five-night cruise for two during the summer of 2018. The Outstanding Educator Award is an initiative set by Hallmark University to reward San Antonio educators for positively and significantly changing the lives of their students and community.
When reviewing the nominations for Olivia Hayes, several points were repeatedly brought up about her strong morals and the way she operates her classroom. Reflecting Hallmark University’s mission to change individual lives, Olivia’s nominations acknowledged how tirelessly she works to change her students’ lives and her commitment to helping her students develop skills to be used not just in their daily lives, but in the jobs that they will one day choose based on their interests. This, coupled with many nominations detailing their personal experiences with Olivia, led to the decision to name her Hallmark University’s “Outstanding Educator of the Year 2018.”
Sarah Garza, a colleague from Brandeis High School, said, “Students are inspired and motivated by Ms. Hayes… she has always been such a humble person who thinks the world of her kids as she does for her students at school. Ms. Hayes definitely carries herself as a positive role model for the current and forthcoming students who will have the opportunity to learn from such a kind and compassionate teacher.”
While Olivia was chosen as the winner of this year’s award, a copious number of nominations for San Antonio educators were sent in, with many exemplary teachers being recommended and considered. Numerous nominees were recommended for similar reasons, and were noted for their personal care and displayed commitment to providing the best education possible to their students. The runner up was recognized for her dedication, and was presented with an “Educator of the Year 2018 Finalist” Award.
Hallmark University and many colleagues met Olivia in her classroom at Brandeis High School and presented the award with her students watching on. On March 20th, 2018, during Hallmark University’s “It’s Time for Change” luncheon, Olivia was publically recognized as the “Outstanding Educator of the Year 2018.”
About Hallmark University: Founded in 1969, Hallmark is an accredited, nonprofit university that offers innovative graduate and undergraduate degrees in aeronautics, business, healthcare and information technology. Hallmark University is recognized for its ability and willingness to adapt to industry and student needs, while providing high quality education. To learn more about Hallmark University, its mission, purpose, values, and program please visit us at hallmarkuniversity.edu
