Decorah Middle School Teacher Honored as PEI Professional Educator of the Year

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — Decorah Middle School fifth-grade reading teacher Sarah Nowack has been named the recipient of the Professional Educators of Iowa's Professional Educator of the Year Award. Nowack was surprised with the recognition during a school assembly May 13 at Decorah Middle School. The award was presented by Terry Gladfelter, executive director of Professional Educators of Iowa. The Professional Educator of the Year Award recognizes educators who demonstrate dedication to students, excellence in education and meaningful impact within their schools and communities. Nominations are submitted by administrators, colleagues, parents, students and community members and include testimonials highlighting an educator's contributions to the profession. Nowack has served students in the Decorah Community School District for 30 years and currently teaches fifth-grade reading. Throughout her career, she has built relationships with students and families while fostering a love of reading and learning. As part of the award, Nowack will receive $1,000 and a complimentary one-year professional membership in Professional Educators of Iowa. "Sarah's impact on students and colleagues over the course of her career has been tremendous," said Justin Albers, principal of Decorah Middle School. "Her passion for helping students grow as readers, her consistency in building positive relationships and her unwavering commitment to education make her incredibly deserving of this honor. She has positively impacted generations of students and families, and we are fortunate to have her as part of our school community." Nowack said receiving the award was both humbling and meaningful. "Teaching has never felt like 'just a job' to me — it has always felt like a calling," Nowack said. "I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow and serve alongside my students each day." She also reflected on the support she has received throughout her career and the importance of the Decorah school community. "It is an incredible blessing to teach in the Decorah Community School District, surrounded by supportive colleagues, amazing students and families who make this community so special," Nowack said. "I am deeply honored and incredibly humbled by this recognition." Decorah Middle School congratulated Mrs. Nowack on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for three decades of service, leadership, and commitment to students. Be the first to know! Sign up for the free newsletter and unlock exclusive updates, breaking news, and tips from around the community.