Thursday’s state dinner honored teachers of the year from across the 50 states and U.S. territories selected for their excellence in teaching and commitment to students’ learning.
According to the Council of Chief State School Officers’ website, the teacher of the year program provides a platform for “exceptional educators to elevate issues that affect teachers and their students, expand their leadership roles and inform policy and practice.”
As this year’s national teacher of the year, Testerman will spend a year traveling the country as an ambassador, urging other teachers to become strong advocates for their students and fellow educators.
Biden, who teaches English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, announced the state dinner last month during a nationally televised appearance in which she surprised Testerman.
Biden said hosting the nation’s top teachers is “one of my favorite events at the White House.” A black-tie state dinner typically recognizes the head of state or government of a close U.S. ally, showcasing ties between the two nations.
