Danbury middle school student finalist in state essay contest

Megan Quinn, a sixth-grader at Broadview Middle School, has never really liked math. Then she met Noreen Bach, her current math teacher. Bach’s dedication to helping students who struggle with math prompted Megan to write an essay that was chosen one of ten finalists in the Connecticut Great Teachers Essay Contest.

The contest, sponsored by the Connecticut State Department of Education, with held to honor educators during Teacher Appreciation Week. The first annual contest was an opportunity for students to let their teachers know how valued they are.

“Mrs. Bach inspires me,” Megan said. “She makes learning fun and she’s not too serious. If you don’t understand she pulls you over to a small group table and works to help you understand it more.”

Megan said she always had good math teachers, but the subject became increasingly difficult, especially when she got to middle school. Megan said Bach finds ways to bring imagery to a problem so a student can visualize what’s going on.

“She’s my favorite teacher because she respects everybody,” Megan said. “She helps all the students. It’s the way she teaches.”

Megan will receive a certificate from the CSDE for being a finalist.