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At Lee Pesky Learning Center, we believe in the transformative power of exceptional educators who inspire, guide, and make an indelible impact on their students’ lives. This belief aligns with the vision of the Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching, established by our founders, Alan and Wendy Pesky, in partnership with Boise State University’s College of Education. This annual award celebrates K-12 educators whose passion and dedication leave a lasting legacy in the lives of their students.

This year, we are thrilled to congratulate the 2024 Pesky Award recipients: Benjamin Ott of Les Bois Junior High and Nicole Rapp of Taft Elementary. Both educators exemplify what it means to go above and beyond, creating opportunities for their students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Benjamin Ott, a science teacher with 25 years of experience, has built an exceptional career fostering curiosity and critical thinking among his students. At Les Bois Junior High, he inspires a love of science through engaging, hands-on lessons. Beyond his classroom, Benjamin mentors Boise State teacher candidates and newly-hired teachers, sharing his expertise and passion for shaping the next generation of educators. As Benjamin puts it, “Teaching is one of the ways I work to give back to my community.”

Nicole Rapp has devoted 30 years to teaching, with the past 17 years spent at Taft Elementary. Inspired by a family legacy of educators, Nicole has created a welcoming, inclusive environment in her multilingual second-grade classroom. She helps students grow as learners and individuals, blending academic and language development with a deep commitment to their success. Nicole’s influence extends beyond her classroom as she mentors Boise State teacher candidates, ensuring they leave confident and well-prepared for their teaching careers.

The Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching was created to honor extraordinary educators who ignite a spark in their students to pursue teaching careers and inspire them to create meaningful connections in their own classrooms.

Each honoree receives $2,000, with an additional $500 awarded to their schools, as a token of appreciation for their tireless work and dedication.

As we celebrate Benjamin and Nicole’s achievements, we are reminded of the vital role educators play in shaping our communities. These teachers embody the values we hold dear at Lee Pesky Learning Center, and their stories inspire us to continue our mission of creating pathways to learning for everyone.

Congratulations, Benjamin and Nicole! Your impact reaches far beyond your classrooms, and we are honored to celebrate your incredible contributions to education. To learn more about the Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching, visit Boise State’s College of Education Site.