Susan Wilder Akre, M. Ed. Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Dedicated to develop lifelong learners prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world

To Whom It May Concern, It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Karen Teff. I have been extremely fortunate to work with Karen for the past two years. In addition to her unrivaled mathematics content and pedagogical knowledge, Karen understands how students learn the process of mathematics and organizes her instruction and assessment to optimize the highest student achievement. Karen is a National Board Certified Teacher and the recipient of the Milken National Educator Award, a prestigious distinction honoring top educators around the country. In addition to her full time high school math position in the Deer River Public Schools District, she teaches classes through Infinity Online and Itasca Community College, and has been trained in Japanese Lesson Study. Under Karen’s tutelage, Deer River’s 11th grade math students have achieved far above the Math MCA state average. This is a major feat for a school comprised of over 60% Free/Reduced lunch special population and nearly 40% American Indian ethnicity. In addition to her incredible dedication ensuring that her students understand both fundamental and advanced mathematical concepts, Karen possesses exceptional understanding of research-based instruction, has established standards-aligned grading and assessment systems, and trains teachers in standards-based grading. Karen teaches with great passion, reflection and initiative. Karen serves on many district committees and teams. She displays sound leadership skills and math teachers from other districts seek her out for assistance and teaching talent as she is known and highly respected by her colleagues. Karen keeps current with new educational innovations and advancements, and focuses all decisions on the most fundamental and essential stakeholder in the educational setting, the student. I believe Karen to be an extremely strong candidate in any search process. She possesses the intellect, ability and communication skills required of an educational leader. She would be a great loss to Deer River students and staff. I give Karen Teff my highest recommendation. Please do not hesitate to call if I can be of further assistance. Sincerely, Susan Wilder Akre, M. Ed.

Deer River High School 101 First Avenue NE

PO Box 307 Deer River, MN 56636

“Home of the Warriors”

King Elementary School 504 5th St. SE PO Box 307

Deer River, MN 56636 “King Pride”