COURTNEY COCHRAN Twitter

Courtney Cochran, a Van Buren Spanish teacher in her 11th year of teaching, was named today the 2017 Arkansas Teacher of the Year.

Cochran teaches six levels of Spanish at Van Buren High. She started the pre-AP Spanish program and wrote a curriculum for Spanish Heritage Learners. As a ninth grade teacher, she started an Organic World Language program. She provides translation services for migrant families, helps a local children’s emergency shelter and volunteers with the Girl Scouts.

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The state prize comes with a $14,000 award, on top of $1,000 as a semi-finalist. She begins a one-year tenure July 1, during which she can have a paid administrative leave for professional development and serve as a non-voting member on the state Board of Education.

Full rundown on the winner here.

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