Sussex Tech teacher wins Teacher of the Year

Sussex Tech teacher John Sell took home top honor as Teacher of the Year Oct. 23 for the enthusiasm he brings to the classroom and his natural gift for teaching.

"It isn't about his content knowledge, although he could quote any poem written in the last two centuries, and it isn't about his pedagogy, although he memorized the Common Core standards in a day," wrote D.J. Forcucci, an English content specialist at Sussex Tech in his letter of recommendation. "It is about his innate charisma. It is about his ability to connect with students so naturally and on so many levels that they seek him out on the days they don't have him just to say 'hi.'"

Colleagues commend Sell on his use of technology to connect with students and parents. He was the first teacher at Sussex Tech to use online instructional activities and tests during daily instruction, said Alison Kepner, spokeswoman for Department of Education.

“Simply put, John is a multiplier,” said Principal John Demby. “He has an innate ability to elevate the level of professionalism and performance of all in his presence. He is a team player [who] supports students, parents and teachers and tends not to draw the spotlight on his efforts.”

Sell was chosen 2013 Teacher of the Year out of a field of 19 school district winners. He earned a bachelor of science in English education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master of arts in curriculum and instruction from Delaware State University. He is completing a doctorate in educational leadership from Northcentral University.

“Being able to help students laugh and enjoy the learning process is key to helping them become lifelong learners who will not see reading or writing or studying as tedious tasks and hurdles, but rather as entertaining endeavors that can unlock a treasure trove of opportunities for a better and more fulfilling life,” Sell said.

As Delaware Teacher of the Year, Sell will receive a $5,000 grant to use for the educational benefit of his students, an educational technology package valued at about $18,000, personal grants for about $5,000 and another $1,000 for classroom use. Additionally, he will receive: a State of Delaware Teacher of the Year commemorative plate from the Division of Motor Vehicles; free graduate-level courses from Delaware’s higher education institutions, including a full doctorate program from Wilmington University; a gold watch from the Delaware State Teachers of the Year Association; a 10-karat gold ring from Jostens; and lunch in Washington, D.C. with Sen. Tom Carper.

Sell will represent Delaware in the National Teacher of the Year Program. He also will address community groups, business leaders, legislators and educational organizations to inform the public about the status of Delaware schools.