Bangor Teacher Finalist for Maine’s ‘Teacher of The Year’

Next month, Maine will announce its "Teacher of The Year" for 2025.

It’s a tough race as there are so many brilliant teachers in Maine that deserve this coveted spot.

Among the finalists is Dr. Emilie Throckmorton from Bangor High School, according to WABI. 

According to WABI, Dr. Throckmorton has been teaching English for 25 years at Bangor High School. Many people know and love her. She is a storyteller, and encourages her students to find their voice through writing.

The article states that the reason she’s a good teacher is her own experiences have shaped her in her role as an educator. Also, being a parent has helped her shine in her teaching because of her understanding, patience, and empathy.

Earlier this year, Throckmorton was named Penobscot County Teacher of the Year, WABI stated.

I fondly remember my favorite high school teacher, Senior Valiente. He had a funny way of starting each class with a handstand against the wall. He was short and stacked in build, wore thick-rimmed glasses, and was bald.

He was a man that didn't care about fancy clothes, he cared about individuality. His handstand was his signature move, funny, unexpected, and a brilliant way to help us unwind and laugh together.

His approach was more than just entertaining. He created space for our feelings, to let go of the stresses of the day and truly express ourselves. No other teacher made such a profound impact on us.

Senior Valiente died 7 years after I graduated high school and I still think about the difference he made in so many young lives. His gift was letting us be ourselves, and that is something we will never forget.

Teaching is a thankless job and I think we can all agree they deserve to be paid more. But it is nice to highlight the educators that are sacrificing so much personally, to help us all.

Check out the finalists for Maine's Teacher of the Year, here.