FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NORTH ADAMS TEACHER DONNA MYERS HONORED WITH STATEWIDE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION
Drury High School teacher Donna Myers has been named the recipient of the 2025 William Spratt Award for Excellence in Teaching Secondary Social Studies by the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies (MCSS). This prestigious, state-wide honor recognizes her decades-long commitment to students, her exceptional contributions to civic and historical education, and her leadership both in and out of the classroom.
The Spratt Award is presented annually to a Massachusetts high school educator who exemplifies excellence in teaching, leadership in curriculum development, and dedication to civic learning. Ms. Myers was selected from a competitive statewide pool of educators, with nominators highlighting her passion, creativity, and transformative impact on her students and community.
“Donna is a leader in our school community and a true advocate for student voice and engagement,” said Drury High School Principal Stephanie Kopala. “Her passion for teaching and her ability to bring history and civics to life are unmatched.”
Dr. Barbara Malkas, Superintendent of North Adams Public Schools, echoed the praise: “Donna Myers is an extraordinary educator who embodies the very best of our district’s values. Her dedication to student learning and civic responsibility serves as a model for educators everywhere.”
Ms. Myers began teaching at Drury High School in 1998 and has remained a cornerstone of the school’s faculty. In addition to pioneering courses like AP Human Geography, Native American History, and the project-based, interdisciplinary “Mirror Mirror” course, she consistently creates innovative and engaging curriculum rooted in inquiry, inclusion, and real-world relevance.
Colleague and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Timothy Callahan described her as “an amazing high school teacher,” noting that even after announcing her planned retirement in 2023, Ms. Myers chose to remain in the classroom—drawn back by a desire to shape new project-based learning initiatives and continue connecting directly with students.
Her contributions were also celebrated last year when she was named Drury High School’s Teacher of the Year, receiving the Marion B. Kelley Award. In nomination letters, colleagues emphasized her collaborative spirit, her mentorship of fellow educators, and her leadership in shaping a positive, restorative, and student-centered school culture.
“She’s a staple and cornerstone of Drury High School,” said humanities colleague David Demary. “She constantly supports each and every student and is one of the most caring human beings I have ever met.”
Students share that sentiment. Colin Daly, a current senior, said, “She became one of my favorite teachers instantly, and deepened my love of learning in just one class.” Another student, James Varellas, added, “She always goes to our basketball games and cheers us on, which means a lot. Her being here means everything to us.”
Thomas Peterson, a 2022 graduate, captured the lasting impact of her work: “If there was one teacher at Drury who made the biggest difference in my life, it would be her. She knows her students inside and out. Her classroom is a place where everyone feels loved and seen.”
The William Spratt Award was formally presented at the MCSS Awards Ceremony on April 29th, 2025, at the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation in Waltham, MA.
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