Eva Coleman, media technology teacher at the Career and Technical Education Center, has been selected as Teacher of the Year by the Student Television Network (STN). Coleman also serves as executive producer of Frisco ISD-TV, a student-run news program covering activities and events across the District.
STN is a national association of high school broadcasting, film and media programs. It works with teachers to provide support and tools for the classroom and hosts contests for students.
The STN Teacher of the Year program recognizes dedication to the profession and a high level of achievement in all areas of teaching broadcast journalism, film or media. The winning teacher must also display creativity, classroom effectiveness and strong leadership.
Coleman will receive a $1,000 cash award, a plaque and an invitation to attend the annual STN Convention in Los Angeles on March 7-10 for professional development. STN will cover the cost of airfare, hotel room, meals and full convention registration.
Coleman has been with Frisco ISD since 2004, when she began teaching and producing television at Frisco High School. She joined the CTE faculty in 2008, teaching advanced broadcast journalism and audio/video production. She also teaches and produces at FISD’s Lone Star High School.
Coleman came to teaching with many years of professional work experience in television and radio. A graduate of Sam Houston State University, she was a producer for Primedia Workplace Learning, a freelance producer and also a technical operator for KRLD 1080 AM radio. She worked as an on–air personality for KRNB 105.7 in the 90s.
Coleman has been a driving force in the expansion of broadcast journalism in Frisco ISD. Many of her former students are reporting and working in broadcasting around the country. Dr. Wes Cunningham, CTE principal, expressed his great pride in this honor for Coleman.
“Mrs. Coleman is a perfect example of how career and technical education can bring professionals from a career field into the classroom to share their experience and drive with the leaders of the future," he said. "Career and technical education is a stepping stone to professional careers for many of our students because of educators with real-world experience such as Eva Coleman.”
Coleman was nominated for Teacher of the Year by one of her students, Morgan Yarnik, who will also be a student presenter at the awards ceremony. Coleman teaches her students the importance of networking, making a good first impression and confidence, Yarnik said.
“I have learned how to talk to adults,” Yarnik said. “She has helped us all have confidence when we meet someone. She has stressed that if you make a good first impression, people will remember you. If you have to go back and interview them, they will remember you and talk to you."
Coleman is known for her desire to share her professional experience for the good of the entire District.
"Eva’s inspiration goes well beyond the students," said Carol Gross, broadcast journalism teacher at Centennial High School. “She kept me from floundering in my first years as a broadcast instructor, sharing lessons and all sorts of technical advice. Without her I might have been lost.”
Coleman says she is humbled by her selection as STN Teacher of the Year and proud of all Frisco ISD programs that help students develop creative communication skills.
"I feel creative expression outlets are crucial in schools because those who take on these tasks play an important role in our society," Coleman said. "Media education also teaches and reinforces skills that are applicable in any profession. We all communicate in some form or fashion. Being effective communicators who cause others to think or be inspired…well…that’s what we do!”
Story courtesy of Frisco ISD