Carmel, IN – Mark Weaver, Clay Middle School Science Department Chair and Teacher, is one of only five teachers in the nation to be inducted into the 2011 National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF). Weaver learned of this award and was honored at a surprise ceremony at his school on Tuesday, April 12, 2011.
“Mr. Weaver brings immense intellectual and personal energy to his classrooms,” said Dr. Jeff Swensson, Superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools. “I am delighted to see his dedication, hard work, and never-ending enthusiasm recognized nationally.”
Distinguished guests honoring Mr. Weaver at the ceremony included Mr. Jim Brainard, City of Carmel Mayor; Dr. Tony Bennett, Indiana Department of Education Superintendent, Dr. Jeff Swensson, Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent; Ms. Carol Strickland, NTHF Trustee; and representatives from Herff Jones, Inc., Scholastic, and Pearson Education.
Weaver is a 29-year veteran of teaching, with 27 of those years at Clay Middle School. Other awards Weaver has earned include the Disney Award (2002-2003), IN State Teacher of the Year (2004), and the National Educator Award (1997). Weaver graduated from Butler University with a Bachelor of Science in 1981 and a Master of Science in 1983.
Weaver will join teachers from Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington for a series of recognition events in Emporia, Kan. on June 15-17 which include meeting with attendees at a Future Teacher Academy, a roundtable discussion, community events, and a banquet and induction ceremony. This year’s class of inductees represents the 20th anniversary of NTHF induction ceremonies.
The National Teachers Hall of Fame was founded in Emporia, Kan. in 1989 to honor elementary and secondary teachers and the teaching profession through a recognition program and museum. Nominees must be certified public or non-public schoolteachers, active or retired, with at least 20 years of experience in teaching grades preK-12. Since the inaugural induction ceremonies in 1992, 95 educators from 34 states and the District of Columbia have been inducted.