New teachers and OSU alumnae recognized with 20 under 2 award

Monday, August 31, 2020

Three Oklahoma State University alumnae have been recognized with the Oklahoma Teaching and Learning Institute’s 20 under 2 award, given to high-performing teachers in their first or second year in the classroom.

Tess McAnally, Alyson Williams and Kyla Zapata received the distinction for what TLI executive director Dr. Joanna Lein describes as “demonstrated success in the classroom.”

“These individuals are passionate, driven and student-centered,” Lein said. “20 Under 2 was launched to try and bring more awareness to the excellence of beginning teachers, aid in retention and help promote the teaching profession.”

Williams teaches fourth grade in the Stillwater Public School district, and Tess McAnally teaches U.S. history and psychology in the Bethany Public School District. Kyla Zapata is a tenth grade English teacher for Bristow Public Schools. Dr. Robin Fuxa, OSU Director of Professional Education, said these students stand out in their careers.

“They going above and beyond as new professionals in the classroom, and I’m proud of the way they’re serving their students, being inclusive and caring about their students,” Fuxa said. “They are representing Oklahoma State University well.”

OSU prepares educators who lead in the global community and advocate for high-quality education for all. Each graduate completes an average of 750 hours in schools, greatly exceeding minimum requirements for other teacher preparation programs across the country.

MEDIA CONTACT: Brittany Bowman | 405-744-9347 | brittany.bowman@okstate.edu