Congratulations to Jeff Charbonneau. He won the 2013 National Teacher of the Year award. Here are the highlights that got him there.

He was one of 12 applicants from south central Washington schools for the Educational Service District 105 Regional Teacher of the Year. This is more than usual as there is often 5-6 applicants. A five member selection committee of local school board members and high school students chose Jeff for the award. It was officially announced in a surprise party in Zillah.

Shortly thereafter, Jeff was announced as the 2013 Washington State Teacher of the Year. He was one of nine throughout the state who were candidates.

In January of this year, Jeff, and three other national finalists, one from Maryland, one from Florida and one from New Hampshire, would meet in Washington D.C. for an extended weekend of formal interview with the National Teacher of the Year selection committee.

Jeff graduated from Zillah High School in 1996, went to Central Washington University and has taught at Zillah High School since 2001.

Way to go, Jeff Charbonneau!

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