The Maine Association of Family and Consumer Sciences has chosen Beth Scherpf as this year’s Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher of the Year. The award was announced at the MAFCS annual conference on May 4, according to a news release from the association.

Scherpf, a teacher at Skowhegan Area High School, is an outstanding teacher who brings out the very best in her students and in those lucky enough to work with her in any capacity. She has extensive knowledge of nutrition and wellness practices in education, as well as a caring and compassionate demeanor to foster relationships with her students. She has a way of making others think about things through a different lens and try new initiatives; and she motivates them with compassion, respect and humor. Her creativity and dedication to Family and Consumer Sciences is inspirational and she has earned the respect and admiration of all with whom she works, according to the release.

Beth Scherpf with the annual Teacher of the Year award. Photo courtesy of the Maine Association of Family and Consumer Sciences

Bruce Mochamer, the principal at Skowhegan Area High School, said, “Beth is a kind, caring and compassionate educator. She is one that always puts her students first and often will create individual plans for her students to ensure they succeed and feel a sense of accomplishment. Beth treats all students and staff with kindness and respect. She has been an important part of making our school climate and culture positive. Beth is well deserving of this award and all of us at Skowhegan Area High School are proud of her and are pleased to have her on our staff,” according to the release.

Scherpf has been an active board member of the association for nine years, serving as its secretary and president as well as nominating chairwoman, counselor and communications chairwoman. She has represented the associate at national meetings as well as leadership conferences. She maintains the association’s database to communicate with Maine FCS educators and supporters.

Additionally, Scherpf has been an active participant in the association’s education task force, including advocacy for FCS education in Maine public schools through the legislative process. She is a driving force in MAFCS.

Scherpf will be honored during the 2019 annual conference of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences in St. Louis, and is eligible for the National Teacher of the Year award.