Glenwood Springs Middle School sixth-grade science teacher, Autumn Rivera, has been named the 2023 Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) Educator of the Year, according to a Roaring Fork School District news release.
Since its beginnings in 1973, the AMLE is the only national education program dedicated to the middle school level, assisting students with professional development.
This prestigious accolade will be officially presented during the 50th Annual Conference for Middle Level Education in Maryland starting Nov. 1, recognizing Rivera’s remarkable contributions to middle-level education.
“Autumn is so deserving of this honor,” AMLE CEO Stephanie Simpson said in the release. “She embodies the middle school philosophy and is exactly the type of teacher that young adolescents need and deserve. Autumn consistently goes above and beyond to meet the needs of her students and school community.”
Rivera commenced her teaching journey in 2005 at Janitell Junior High School in Widefield, eventually finding her calling in Glenwood Springs Middle School, where she has been imparting knowledge in the realm of sixth-grade science since 2012. At Glenwood Springs, she played a pivotal role in launching the innovative “Crews” program, fostering daily interactions between teachers and students to address emotional, social and academic needs.
Rivera’s teaching approach is notably hands-on, embracing the local community as a valuable learning resource. Her annual Colorado River Expedition unit allows students to explore the river firsthand. Activities range from rafting and a hunt for macroinvertebrates to bug identification, fish hatchery visits and engaging with local experts, including water chemists, anglers and river guides. This experience culminates in students actively contributing to their local community, from fundraising through nature drawings to creating public service announcements that are broadcast on local radio.
“In addition to a strong focus on student belonging, Autumn also strives to ensure we are keeping our focus on equitable opportunities for all students,” Glenwood Middle School Interim Principal Sarah Casaletto said in the release. “She understands the importance of relationships and strives to build a community within her classroom and across the school.”
Beyond her classroom efforts, Rivera has taken on roles such as Colorado Science Conference Planning Committee member, Colorado State Superintendent Teacher’s Cabinet member and board member of the Colorado Center for Rural Education. Her dedication and passion eventually led her to become one of four finalists for the National Teacher of the Year award after being honored as the 2022 Colorado State Teacher of the Year.
Autumn Rivera attributed her success to the support of her colleagues and the professional learning community she cherishes.
“I am beyond honored to receive this award,” Rivera said in the release. “I would not be where I am today without the fantastic support from all the middle-level educators with whom I work. Teaching is not an individual job, but instead a collaborative profession. I am so grateful for those that push me to be the educator I am today.”