Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching: 2021 Winners Announced

Lee Pesky Learning Center (LPLC) announces an important leadership transition. Executive Director Maureen O’Toole will be stepping away from her position to attend to family health matters. The entire LPLC community expresses deep gratitude for Maureen’s leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to advancing our mission of helping students, families, and educators overcome learning challenges and reach their full potential.

During her tenure, Maureen guided the Center through a period of growth and adaptation while strengthening relationships with community partners, expanding access to services, and championing programs that ensure all learners have the tools and support they need to succeed. Her empathy, professionalism, and focus on mission-driven impact have left an enduring mark on the organization and those it serves.

Stepping into the role of Executive Director is Dr. Lindy Crawford, who previously led Lee Pesky Learning Center and now returns with optimism and a renewed vision for impact. Dr. Crawford brings deep institutional knowledge, decades of educational leadership experience, and an unwavering commitment to the Center’s mission. Her familiarity with LPLC’s team, community, and the broader educational landscape in Idaho ensures continuity, stability, and momentum during this transition.

“Lee Pesky Learning Center’s professional expertise is second to none and it is my great honor to once again serve alongside an incredibly accomplished and deeply empathetic team,” said Dr. Crawford. “For close to 30 years, LPLC has led educational innovation using an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning. I am excited to play a small part in our continued evolution.”

Board Chair Jim Foudy added, “We are profoundly grateful to Maureen for her care, leadership, and commitment to every learner we serve. We’re equally confident in welcoming Lindy back to guide LPLC into its next chapter. Her deep knowledge of LPLC and her passion for education will be a great asset to the organization during this transition period.”

For nearly three decades, Lee Pesky Learning Center has helped thousands of students, families, and educators overcome obstacles to learning through direct academic and clinical services, professional training, and community partnerships. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to ensure every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Alan and Wendy Pesky, founders of Lee Pesky Learning Center, have been honoring outstanding teachers since 2011 with an award they created–the Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching (PAIT). In partnership with Boise State’s College of Education, PAIT recognizes inspirational K-12 teachers in the state of Idaho and beyond who make a difference in the lives of their students through passion and caring.

The 2021 PAIT recipients were announced this past December 18th, 2021. Recipients include: Mike Brushafer of Canyon Springs High School, James Ledoux of Renaissance High School, Jake Miller of North Junior High School, and Lisa Sterling of Hillside Junior High School. In addition to receiving the honor of being selected, PAIT award winners receive a plaque, $2,000, and a $500 award to their school.

Recipients can be viewed receiving their awards here and additional information about PAIT as shared in Boise State’s news can be accessed here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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