31st Annual Simplot Teacher of the Year Finalist Philip Gardner

Please join us in congratulating Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year finalist, Philip Gardner. Mr. Gardner teaches 8^th grade Science at Irving Middle School.

This year, the Simplot Education Council received 2,377 nominations for 398 teachers in Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Finalists will be featured daily through Thursday, May 9, 2024. Three Simplot Inspirational Teacher Awards will be announced on Friday, May 10, 2024 – one for a teacher at the elementary, middle and high school levels. In addition, 5 finalists have been selected for each category and each will be awarded a $100 check. The Simplot Inspirational Teacher Award Recipients of 2024 will each be presented a $500 check on behalf of the Council.

“Mr. Gardner is a funny teacher who is very kind and a good listener. He will tell jokes with us but always teaches us in a way that is eat to understand.” Madison O.

“Mr. Gardner was the most kind and relatable teacher I’ve ever met. He taught everything in a fun way and he had great taste in music. He knew how to make learning fun.” Ricky H.

“I think Mr. Garner deserves this award because he is a great teacher and makes all of his lessons interactive and fun.” Nathan H.

“I remember my first day in his class. He was so funny and cheerful. He made his class fun. I used to get so excited to show up to his class, he never had a mean bone in his body. I looked up to him, he was a safe place for me whenever I was down. I am glad he was my teacher.” Scotlynn C.