Superintendent Lisha Cabral and Oliver Ames High School Principal Kelly Cavanaugh are pleased to share that Oliver Ames High School English Teacher Marisa Sousa was selected for the Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS).
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award, especially since it originated from a student’s recommendation,” Sousa said. “I am infinitely grateful for the colleagues and administrators who tirelessly support each other in our district. My teaching is reinforced and nurtured by those I am privileged to interact with on a daily basis: my colleagues and above all my students.”
Sousa was nominated by Oliver Ames High School student and member of NSHSS, Marvel Nemr, for her outstanding dedication and commitment to excellence as an educator for 11 years in the district. Each year student members of NSHSS nominate an educator who has had a significant impact on their academic studies for the Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction award. The award recognizes exemplary educators whose passion and devotion inspire their students to grow and develop as scholars, leaders and citizens.
“Mrs. Sousa has pushed me as a student, athlete, leader, and general person to become a better critical thinker, maintain a growth mindset, and create a well-balanced lifestyle,” said Nemr. “I can speak on behalf of many of her students and say that she has made a long-lasting impact on all the people she has taught. From countless hours after school to celebrating our accomplishments, Mrs. Sousa has been a role model to me and many others.”
Sousa was also recognized as one of the NSHSS Claes Nobel Educators of the Year Finalists for 2024. She will receive a $1,000 award, a personalized NSHSS Golden Apple Award and is invited to attend the NSHSS Scholar’s Day Event in Maryland next summer.
“To be recognized by one of your students for a prestigious award is such an honor for any teacher,” said Principal Cavanaugh. “It is no surprise that NSHSS then selected Marisa as one of the top ten educators of the year. The Oliver Ames community is so proud of her for this accomplishment and grateful for her commitment to our students.”
“We are truly blessed in Easton to have dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring professionals,” said Superintendent Cabral. “Marisa is a prime example of that commitment. Education is a challenging profession, and one that rarely provides accolades. Marisa, like most educators, teaches from the heart, and the success of her students is priceless. It is wonderful to see her receive this well-deserved recognition for her outstanding work.”
About the National Society of High School Scholars Program (NSHSS)
NSHSS seeks to advance the goals and aspirations of high-achieving students through unique learning experiences, scholarships, internships, international study and peer networks. There are more than 1,700,000 Society members in over 170 countries. NSHSS members become lifetime members, from high school to college to careers. The program connects outstanding young scholars with the resources they need to develop their strengths and pursue their passions.
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