Danza named Teacher of the Year

BURLINGTON — Close to 300 students sign up each year for the culinary arts classes taught by Barbara Danza, who was named teacher of the year on Monday for the Region 10 School District. Danza’s classes at Lewis S. High School are so popular that she teaches six classes each semester, one more than most of her colleagues.

Even with the additional class option, less than half of the students who register are able to take Danza’s class. Enrollment is based on a random drawing, said assistant principal Chris Rau. “Barbara is the reason we have more students sign up for her class than any other in the school,” he said.

“Her personality can connect with any student,” said assistant principal Katherine Blore.

“She hears, she listens, she tries,” said Phyllis Jones, the department coordinator for Family and Consumer Science, which includes Danza’s classes. Jones is on a committee of former teachers of the year, who, in subsequent years, choose which teacher to honor.

“She is a wonderful person and we could have a champion” Jones said, when Danza competes in the state competition in the fall.

“I didn’t expect it at all,” Danza said, still a little surprised by the win. “My insides are shaking. I am absolutely stunned.”

Danza has been a teacher for 30 years and said she would like to have a lasting impression on her students.

“I hope to have an impact on students for the rest of their life. I get emails from students saying they remember me,” and what she taught them, she said.

“She shares with her colleagues and eases the anxiety of other teachers. It helps them give it a try,” said Jones.

Danza even found a way to connect STEM learning with cooking, Jones said. When the technology class made 3-D cookie cutters, Danza’s students made cookie dough, used the 3-D cookie cutters and then displayed the finished product in a school exhibit.

Danza and her students are also known for sharing baked goods with the high school community. They have sold linzer tarts at a school event, baked soda bread for St. Patrick’s Day and Danza catered a staff luncheon featuring panini sandwiches.

Students can eat what they make in Danza’s class, which may partially explain why her class is so popular.

By Leslie Hutchison / Hearst Connecticut Media / Friends and family members who attended the surprise ceremony for teacher of the year Barbara Denza had to keep out of sight before the ceremony to not spoil the surprise. From back row, left, Pat Strawson, friend, husband Paul, daughter, Melissa...