About me
Sara Russell, the 2022 Iowa Teacher of the Year, is a social studies teacher at Pleasant Valley High School in Bettendorf, IA. Throughout her time at Pleasant Valley High School, Russell has taught a variety of social studies courses ranging from history to economics to Advanced Placement (AP) classes. In the classroom, Russell prides herself on the importance of student centered learning, critical thinking, and the power of productive struggle. She is passionate about the inclusion and acceptance of all students. In addition to teaching, Russell has served as a mentor to new teachers, helped to plan and implement professional development as a member of the Teacher Leadership System (TLS), and advised student groups focused on equity and inclusion and civic engagement. In 2017, Russell earned her Masters of Science degree in education studies from Western Illinois University with a thesis focused on multicultural and social justice education. When not in the classroom, Russell enjoys traveling and going on adventures with her husband, Ian, and twin sons, Gavin and Aiden.
