Aliza Becker, a fifth-grade teacher at Eshleman Elementary School in Penn Manor School District (PMSD), is one of 24 semifinalists for the 2027 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Award.

Becker was nominated by Elizabeth Raff, PMSD K-12 learning facilitator. She was notified of her selection as a semifinalist on Feb. 17.

Becker studied education at Messiah University and received a middle-level education certification in social studies and science. She earned her master's degree from Millersville University in curriculum design, instruction, and assessment, with a STEM certification.

Following graduation, she became a long-term substitute at Eshleman. In 2017, Becker joined the Eshleman Elementary School staff full time as a fifth-grade teacher.

Growing up, Becker had not always envisioned herself being a teacher. She thought she would go into the fields of marine biology, German, or archaeology, but she eventually chose education because it allowed her to remain a lifelong learner alongside her students.

Her favorite aspect of teaching is having a good rapport with her students. Becker thrives on meeting her students where they are and providing the accommodations they need to succeed in the classroom.

"Mrs. Becker is a very humble individual," explained Dr. Mealy, Eshleman Elementary School principal. "When we discussed the potential benefits of being a PA Teacher of the Year candidate, (Becker) was most excited about the networking that she could do to get new ideas to improve instruction and engagement for her students."

With 28 students in her class, Becker implemented a "Genius Hour" this school year and plans to continue integrating it within her classes. During this time, students are encouraged to complete their own research on a project or topic they're interested in.

Becker said, "I implemented Genius Hour for my class because I wanted to create learning experiences that make my students want to come to school and learn."

Becker knew one student was passionate about dog grooming and suggested the student do some research during Genius Hour on what it entails to run a dog grooming business. Throughout the year, the student conducted research, created and printed flyers and brochures, and began offering dog grooming to her neighbors and teachers.

One of the most important traits to Becker is being an educator who values feedback and reflection, which is something candidates going through the Teacher of the Year process receive.

Throughout the next few months, she will go through an extensive process to be in the running for the final round. Each semifinalist must submit a recorded lesson, with a video explaining the process of creating and delivering the lesson, and complete a phone interview to be considered as a finalist.

"What makes Mrs. Becker so special is that she is continually seeking to improve her practice. She is an exceptional educator, but she does not remain stagnant. I do have to say, that is something that happens often at Eshleman. Teachers are never satisfied with the status quo," said Mealy.

In 2019, Penn Manor High School psychology teacher Maria Vita was selected as a finalist. Raff, who taught at Pequea Elementary prior to taking on the role of learning facilitator, was honored as the Teacher of the Year in 2022.