Heather Harvey-Gibson Voted WNWSU Teacher of the Year
By Gael Clauson

Bethel Elementary School’s special education teacher and case manager, Heather Harvey-Gibson, is feeling "very happy and honored" with her newly named "WNW Teacher of the Year" title. She attended a celebratory luncheon October 17 to accept her award, along with other honored recipients from around the state.

Harvey-Gibson began her career in Bethel in 1995, teaching and assisting students with special needs. In 2000, she became Bethel Elementary School’s special education case manager. She teaches, oversees staff, advocates for children, manages a full schedule of meetings, and consults daily with teachers and parents.

"It’s a real juggling act," she said, "but, at the end of the day, I feel that I’ve done my best. My staff is so wonderful! I couldn’t do what I do without them."

Harvey-Gibson lives in Stockbridge with her husband, Luke, their five-month-old daughter, Madelyn; and the family dogs, Sadie and Casey. She credits her success to her father who encouraged her to attend college, to Karen Woolsey whose guidance was "invaluable," and to her husband "for his never ending support and strength."

Bethel School Principal Andrew West comments, "I am very proud to work with a teacher of her caliber. She is an outstanding teacher and always puts the needs of her students first. The students of Bethel Elementary School are extremely fortunate to have her to help them be successful."

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