Educator of the Year

Kirsten Verhofstadt, Science Teacher Grades 4-8

Kirsten Verhofstadt left behind a promising career running a scientific lab to become a science teacher. "I wanted to inspire children to become scientists and come back home to Sacred Heart, where I attended school," she says. "I wanted to share my passion for science with them and to help them discover a whole new world out there. My dream is to have taught a Nobel Prize winner."

Verhofstadt frequently uses hands-on teaching methods because she believes that children learn best by assessing and figuring things out for themselves. She not only teaches content but also character and teamwork. She often uses class time to teach the overlooked skills that help students to be successful in school and in life.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Verhofstadt has been a member of the school board, serves on the Confirmation Council, and is co-moderator of the Student Council.

Verhofstadt also volunteers as a religion teacher and Eucharist minister.

(from San Jose Magazine, September 2008)