DES MOINES, Iowa — Ann Mincks, an ELL teacher at Hoover High School in Des Moines, is the 2024 Iowa Teacher of the Year.
Mincks has been with Des Moines Public Schools since 2008. She graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and got her Master of Arts in education from Viterbo University.
"As a teacher, I strive to do more than just teach students English," Mincks said. "I want students to have an experience that truly breaks down the walls of the classroom and connect students to their future successes in a career or as a community member."
Mincks is now a nominee for the National Teacher of the Year award.
"Ms. Mincks is second to none when it comes to building authentic relationships," Hoover High School Principal Qynne Kelly said. “She feels a sense of efficacy over her students’ performance and knows that the way to a student’s mind is through their heart. She often goes above and beyond for students, lending an ear and supporting them when they are facing struggles, but also celebrating them as well."
Other finalists for this year's award included:
- Daniel Black, Council Bluffs Community School District (music teacher)
- Thomas Braverman, Iowa City Community School District (former special education teacher)
- Rachel Evanoff, Dubuque Community School District (science teacher)
- Tiffany Herr, Norwalk Community School District (elementary school teacher)
- Brenda Kaufmann, North Tama County Community School District (elementary school teacher)
- Nicole Schroeder, Saydel Community School District (elementary school teacher)
“Ann is an exceptional teacher. By providing her students the skills necessary to achieve literacy, she is creating a foundation for them to thrive in school, work, and life,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said in a statement. “Strong literacy skills are critical for all students, and I look forward to the positive impact Ann’s advocacy will have for teachers and students across our state.”
Krystal Colbert, an elementary school teacher at Mitchellville Elementary, won the Iowa Teacher of the Year award in 2023.