The highlight of every Christmas parade is, of course, Santa Claus. However, on Saturday evening the Moundsville Christmas parade will also include the 2020 West Virginia Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Schwertfeger, from Cameron High School. The float is courtesy of the law firm of Gold, Khourey & Turak.

“Each year we use our float in the parade to recognize and promote something positive about Marshall County,” says Christopher Turak. “This year we are thrilled to recognize Jennifer on our float. There’s only one teacher of the year in West Virginia, and she is right here in our community. We are so proud of her accomplishment, and of the efforts of teachers throughout Marshall County,” continues Turak.

Schwertfeger teaches traditional and college-level courses at Cameron High School, including biology, human anatomy, physics and AP Biology. She has changed the way science is taught in her classroom, providing students with high-level interactive lessons. Schwertfeger believes all students should be engaged in projects that provide STEM education.

“I am completely humbled and grateful for the opportunities this award has provided me,” says Schwertfeger. “Access to quality science education and STEM education is vital to the growth and stability of not only Marshall County but for West Virginia. Thank you to Gold, Khourey & Turak for recognizing the need for STEM education and allowing me to spread this message in the parade on their float,” offers Schwertfeger.

Schwertfeger was joined in the parade by educators, students and fellow Marshall County science teachers. Prior to the parade, GKT hosted a pizza party at their office and made a check presentation to Schwertfeger in support and appreciation of her efforts.

Local News Coverage

WV Teacher of the Year to be honored in Moundsville parade: WTRF (Wheeling, WV)

Moundsville law firm honors W.Va. Teacher of the Year: WTOV (Steubenville, OH)