If you read our earlier post, you know that January 21 was the day the National Liberty Museum awarded our annual "Teacher as Hero" Awards sponsored by State Farm® to some of the area's best teachers. We'd like to introduce you to the winners one by one.

Alicia Conquest-Bulgin is a Spanish teacher at the School of the Future in West Philadelphia. Although this is her first year teaching at School of the Future, she has already made a deep impression on her students and colleagues. Her principal Rosalind Chivis told us that she is “the best kind of educator you could have,” because Alicia takes a personal interest in her classes and builds meaningful relationships throughout the whole school community. Students in her Spanish classes share her excitement and love for the language. She often spends evenings and weekends talking with parents and visiting the homes of struggling learners.

Outside of teaching, she coaches volleyball and basketball. Because of her incredible commitment to her students, the School of the Future now has a Sunshine Club, where students gather to serve members of their community. Even detention has become a way for students to extend their hands in friendship, by making cards for seniors at a local community center.

Do you have an educator you’d like to see recognized as a 2010 State Farm® "Teacher as Hero"?  Click here for more information. If you are a teacher who is doing some inspiring work with your students, or if you are a student of a "hero" teacher, we'd love to hear your stories and feedback on our blog. So check back with us daily!