Two local teachers honored with Excellence in Education Awards

Fifty-three Iowa teachers — including two Newton residents — were honored Monday at the 14th annual Excellence in Education Awards sponsored by the Iowa State Education Association at Hy-Vee Hall.

Robert Williams, a fifth-grade teacher at Findley Elementary School in Des Moines, and Lois Holmes, a first-grade teacher at Berg Elementary School in Newton, were among those honored.

According to his wife, Denise, Williams was cited by colleagues for his popularity with students. When several of Williams’ former fifth graders — now North High School students — wrote class essays about his positive influence on them, their teachers nominated Williams for the Excellence in Education Award.

Holmes’ nomination came as a result of her willingness to give freely of her time to help her students, former students and colleagues.

“Lois Holmes is an exceptional teacher whom we are very lucky to have at Berg Elementary,” said Jolene Comer, Holmes’ principal. “She is a dedicated, caring teacher who goes above and beyond for her students. She keeps her young learners engaged through motivating, student-focused lessons and strives to meet each student’s needs on a daily basis. She is a highly regarded teacher by Berg students, staff and families.”