excellence in education award
The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, in partnership with BNSF Railway, is proud to announce the BNSF Railway Excellence in Education award. “BNSF is proud to recognize the outstanding dedication and achievement of these two educators,” said Matt Jones, spokesperson for BNSF Railway. “During a most challenging academic year for everyone, Mrs. Welch and Mr. Asleson stood out for their positive impact on students. Congratulations to both of them!”
Students nominate educators in Kindergarten through 12th grade who made an impact on students and education in Billings. These Distinguished Educators will be eligible to apply for $2,500 for continuing education and/or classroom supplies. Two Distinguished Educators are selected for this award through an application process and community committee review.
Students nominate educators in Kindergarten through 12th grade who made an impact on students and education in Billings. These Distinguished Educators will be eligible to apply for $2,500 for continuing education and/or classroom supplies. Two Distinguished Educators are selected for this award through an application process and community committee review.
Congratulations to our 2023 BNSF Railway
Excellence in Education Award winners!
Excellence in Education Award winners!
Abbey Kochel - Castle Rock Middle School
Geography Ms. Abbey Kochel, a Geography teacher at Castle Rock Middle School, strives to be a high-caliber educator by being a strong role model to her students and creating connections. In Ms. Kochel’s classroom, students are encouraged to be active participants with the hope that active learners will become active citizens in their communities. Ms. Kochel plans to use the BNSF Excellence Award to purchase a 3-D printer for her 7th grade geography classroom. With the printer, students will 3-D print the topography of continents, the landscape of a major city, or even a famous man-made landmark. Printed maps of the state of Montana will enrich Montana history studies like learning about the terrain the Plains Indians traveled while following the buffalo herds. The printer provides a hands-on learning tool that engages multiple learning types and will be used by hundreds of students for years to come. With Ms. Kochel’s help, students in her classroom will gain unique perspectives into landscapes and history using a 21st century learning tool. |
Angie Langliers - Will James Middle School
Music Education Mrs. Angie Langeliers has spent twenty years in music education working with children preschool age through high school. She is driven by her belief that music should be available to all students “in a way that fosters community, kindness, and allows them to see success as they develop in the fundamentals of music.” With the BNSF Award funding, Mrs. Langeliers will provide her students an opportunity to develop their music reading skills through the use of electronic pianos. The pianos reinforce student’s ability to read music, rather than simply listening to the music to mimic a song. With a classroom set of electronic pianos, or the Piano Lab, students will be able to compose music, to progress independently as they gain skills, and to have an active role in becoming self-sufficient musicians. Research shows that developing piano skills helps students understand patterns and rhythm at deeper levels, benefiting them in many aspects of learning including math, reading, and science. The Will James Piano Lab will benefit 200 students each year, developing skills for a lifetime of learning. |