Idaho Teachers of the Year 2020 and 2021 travel to White House

BOISE,ID (CBS2) — On Monday, the White House celebrated over 100 teachers in the National Teachers of the Year Ceremony, a part of Washington Week in DC.

And the Gem State, had not one but two - of the state's top teachers in attendance.

It's one of the most prestigious recognition programs in the country, and a big day for Idaho Teacher's of the Year for both 2021 and 2022, who received the honor of travelling to Washington DC and meeting with the President and First Lady.

And though you may not recognize him from afar, this is Idaho teacher of the Year 2021 - Jorge Pulleiro, showing off his salsa skills out front of the White House.

Jorge Pulleiro is theAssociate Principal at Twin Falls High School.

"That's out Teacher of the Year dancing in front of the White House!" exclaims Stacie Lawler.

That voice you hear cheering him on, that's Idaho Teacher of the Year 2020, Stacie Lawler, a physical education teacher in the Lakeland School District.

Both were honored this past week and met with the first lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden, even snapping some selfies.

Washington Week, allowed educators to both learn and advocate for education, commencing with a celebration in the Rose Garden at the White House.

During the event, the First Lady emphasized the positive impact teachers have on students and parents and addressed the difficulties teachers faced in adapting to the pandemic.

For both Pulleiro and Lawler, this is the culmination of a year of representing teachers across the Gem State and they both hope to pass on what they have learned and inspire their students and fellow educators for years to come.

We are so thankful for all the teachers helping their students right now -- and we want to recognize them!

If you know of a classroom leader doing something great, email us: Leadersinlearning@kboi2.com.

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