At a Veteran’s Day assembly at Ironwood Ridge High School, Reverend James Briney was inspired by the exchange between the veterans who had fought for our freedoms and the educators and students who were now exercising those freedoms in an atmosphere of learning.
In his effort to honor teachers and students, Reverend Briney created the Waters Excellent Educator Recognition Award and the Hiremath Student Integrity Prize through the Excellent Educator & Student Integrity Fund established at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona in 2014.
The fund awards a cash prize to both an educator nominated by colleagues for their excellence and authentic inspiration to students, and to a student who submits an essay about integrity. “The important thing is that you recognize the presence of integrity when you look in the mirror,” shared Reverend Briney, who hopes to see the awards become models for even more high schools in the future in an effort to recognize excellent teachers and students who explore the notion of integrity.
The Waters Excellent Educator Recognition Award honors the career of Lou Waters, who has dedicated his life to informing and educating our community, our nation, and the world. Educators at Ironwood Ridge High School and University High School are eligible for the Waters Award, based on their devotion and competence.
Congratulations to Kaitlyn Rini, the 2022-2023 Waters Award recipient from Ironwood Ridge High School, and Megan Cassidy, the 2022-2023 Waters Award recipient from University High School!
I am truly honored to be the recipient of the Waters Excellent Educator Recognition Award. I can't stress enough about how lucky I feel to do what I love at Ironwood Ridge. I am grateful to be surrounded by colleagues and students that push me to be my best self everyday!
— Kaitlyn Rini, 2022-2023 Waters Award Recipient, English and Special Education Teacher, Ironwood Ridge High School
I am honored to have been selected at the 2023 recipient at University High School. I was unaware that I was nominated by my peers and was amazed that my students and peers see my passion for our school and our students. It is amazing to be recognized for my work with our community and I feel lucky to work alongside amazing educators that help each other, and our students grow.
— Megan Cassidy, 2022-2023 Waters Award Recipient, Social Studies Teacher, University High School