Susan Knell, a teacher at Woodward Middle School, is the recent recipient of an Outstanding Educator Award from the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International Society for Key Women Educators.

Former Woodward librarian Kathy Caldwell presented the award Tuesday, March 17, in the Poulsbo City Hall Council Chambers Room.

“In addition to being an enthusiastic teacher of French, Susan serves as adviser for the Builders Club, the middle-school level of the Kiwanis organization that raised money for UNICEF’s campaign to eliminate neonatal and maternal tetanus,” said Woodward  Middle School Principal Mike Florian. “And, she collected warm socks for the homeless in December and food for Helpline House in January.

“Susan also donates time to the school’s composting and recycling program, and educates students about reducing their carbon footprint. Our students respond positively to her passion for making the world a better place,” Florian said.

“I feel very honored to be recognized for my efforts to make French fun, as well as meaningful,” Knell said. “I also appreciate the awareness this award brings to Woodward’s efforts to educate our students to reuse, recycle and compost.”

Delta Kappa Gamma is an international professional organization for “key women educators,” promoting educational excellence through service, fellowship and personal, and professional growth, including leadership development. There are more than 100,000 members worldwide.

The Alpha Sigma Chapter, founded in Washington state in 1961, draws members from Bainbridge Island, Silverdale, North Kitsap and Bremerton.