TOP TEACHER: Highland Park High School's Charlotte Landreau honored

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - Before the school year wraps up, Fox 9 wants to honor the extraordinary teachers who help shape the next generation.

Fox 9 surprised Highland Park High School philosophy and dance teacher Charlotte Landreau with the Top Teacher award. Landreau is also the school’s International Baccalaureate Coordinator.

She was nominated by her former student Artika Tyner, who described Landreau’s dedication to her students.

Tyner told Fox 9 Landreau helped her navigate a path to college as a first generation student.

“Ms. Landreau committed countless hours to mentoring, supporting, and encouraging me to succeed,” she said. “[My] high school experience suddenly came alive and I could envision myself as a college student in the future.”

Landreau is also committed to social justice and global learning. She has established sister school relationships in Tanzania, Spain, Ecuador and India and takes part in the Peace through Civics Curriculum.

"I started out teaching history in Puerto Rico,” said Landreau. “I ended up teaching philosophy and dance in St. Paul, Minnesota and a lot of history in between. I've worked with so many hundreds of students that they've all left a mark on me. And you guys, looking out at you, you're beautiful. So, you never know what's going to happen."

By winning the Top Teacher award, Ms. Landreau receives $900 for classroom supplies thanks to Royal Credit Union and a Subway sandwich party for 50 of her friends.