Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Adult Education Teacher, Rebecca Henderson, who was named Idaho Adult Education Teacher of the Year by the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education.
The award was presented as part of Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, which recognizes the work of adult learners, educators and programs across Idaho.
Henderson joined CWI one year ago, bringing nearly 20 years of experience supporting English language learners. With a master’s degree in Applied Linguistics, she spent much of her career in northern Australia working as an English as a Second Language teacher, Literacy and Numeracy Specialist, and higher education tutor in postgraduate bilingual programs.
At CWI, Henderson focuses on English Language Learning (ELL), teaching English and technology courses and supporting students through CWI’s Community Learning Center. She also teaches workplace English at Saint Alphonsus as part of an Integrated Education and Training program, helping employees strengthen their English language skills as they pursue advancement and new career opportunities.
Fellow Adult Education Teacher, Shani Cummins, nominated Henderson for the award, highlighting her ability to support students across different learning environments.
“One of Rebecca’s greatest strengths is her ability to meet students where they are and provide instruction that is responsive to their individual needs,” Cummins wrote. “She is conscientious in her lesson planning, carefully considering student goals and strengths.”
For Henderson, those students are at the heart of why she teaches.
“I teach because of my students,” Henderson said. “They are the ones who are truly inspiring, as they keep going every day, with persistence and joy, in the face of so many obstacles, and I just get to walk alongside them for a season and help them get to the next step.”
One moment that stands out happened during an English and technology class. A Microsoft Word activity about students’ likes and dislikes became an opportunity for them to share stories about their families, home countries, celebrations and challenges they had overcome.
“They each have a long story of overcoming hardship and working hard to have a new life in America,” Henderson said. “No English teacher can script class sessions like this one, but it really touched me with its unexpected beauty and depth.”
Having spent nearly 20 years overseas, Henderson said she shares a special connection with students adjusting to a new culture. Her students and colleagues have also helped her feel at home since returning to the United States.
Henderson hopes the recognition brings additional attention to the opportunities Adult Education provides students and their families.
“I love that it is never too late to study, to change your career, to have different or better opportunities,” she said. “I love that our Adult Education department is free, and is so encouraging for students to continue to keep moving forward.”
