Dennis Ortwein Elementary School
Las Vegas, NV
Christopher is the best kindergarten teacher I’ve ever seen. Though I may be biased Bc I’m his wife, I see the strategies his students use that many secondary students still have not mastered. He has his students cooperatively solve problems, partner together to work, and present to the class individually on microphones. Aside from his amazing instruction, the kids LOVE HIM. He’s the most requested kinder teacher at his site and for good reason! During the shutdown, his parents and students did a drive by birthday party for him with many gifts and thank you cards. His students adore his compassion and guidance. Christopher is also a National Board Certified Teacher which is an incredibly difficult certification to achieve. He worked hard to become the best teacher he could be for his students, administration, community, and himself. There are days when he comes home from an especially trying day appearing defeated and exhausted, but he still manages to put that aside and make copies, grade, and answer parent emails much past contract time. My husband deserves a reprieve. We just had a baby in October 2021 as well and we both never had a honeymoon. This is something he would be incredibly thankful for!