College of St. Joseph

Tong Chen, a CSJ class of 2005 graduate, has been named the 2012 VT State Teacher of the Year. Chen, who teaches middle and high school Chinese at Leland and Gray Union High School, is the only authorized AP Chinese teacher in the state. By becoming the Teacher of the Year, Chen will travel throughout the state visiting various schools to work with students. She also will be Vermont’s nominee for the prestigious National Teacher of the Year award.

Chen’s professional resume is extensive. She is involved in the Journey East Art and Culture Exchange Program, The Governor’s Institute on Asian Culture, UVM’s Asian Studies Outreach Program, Vermont’s Virtual High School, and has written three textbooks. She is currently working toward her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership, and gives credit to her parents for becoming the teacher that she is today. “My teaching sets high expectations and passes the message to the students that learning is a serious matter, but it can be fun and inspiring.”

To learn more and read a complete interview, visit the VPR website at http://www.vpr.net/news_detail/92177/