Patsy McIlvain, Horace Mann Elementary School, Woodward
2011 Medal for Excellence in Elementary Teaching
Patsy McIlvain, winner of the Oklahoma Medal for Excellence in Elementary Education, teaches fourth grade at Horace Mann Elementary School in Woodward. A National Board Certified teacher with nearly 30 years of teaching experience, McIlvain creates a learning environment that meets students where they are and challenges them to succeed.
“Patsy McIlvain’s classroom is a safe-haven, a reading room, an art studio, a research laboratory, an exchange for ideas and a magnet for student success,” said Woodward School Board President Roxy Merklin. “Patsy is proof that learning can meet all PASS requirements and still be exciting, engaging and just plain fun.”
In designing lesson plans, McIlvain integrates curriculum and incorporates the nine multiple intelligences – from linguistic and mathematical to kinesthetic and musical – to engage students in creative learning experiences. During a science lesson on owls, her students conduct scientific research, read owl-themed literature, work with a local artist to create owl paintings and receive a surprise visit from real owls, courtesy of the Audubon Society. While studying Oklahoma history, McIlvain’s students portray famous Oklahomans, make shields using Native American symbols, write poetry about the state and paint murals of Oklahoma wildlife.
Early each school year, McIlvain conducts “Parents as Teachers Night” to help parents understand middle childhood development and discuss ways that they can encourage their children’s learning.
Fellow teacher Cindy Brown said McIlvain agonizes over every low score on fourth-grade achievement tests and “collaborates with other teachers to find ways to close the achievement gaps and ensure success for all students.”
McIlvain has been named Woodward Teacher of the Year and was an Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist. Last year, the Oklahoma Heritage Museum recognized McIlvain as its Oklahoma History Teacher of the Year.