MILWAUKEE — Erin Sivek, an English language arts educator at International Newcomer Center (Milwaukee Public Schools), has been named the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s 2022-23 Global Educator of the Year. Ms. Sivek has frequently collaborated with the Institute of World Affairs to bring global programming to her school. She was recommended for the award by IWA’s Nicole Palasz.
Sivek was presented the Global Educator of the Year Award on April 18 during MPS’ World Fair, held at Panther Arena. She received the honor for facilitating global learning in ways that respect and value her students’ home languages and cultures. State Superintendent of Public Instruction State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly noted “The impact Ms. Sivek has on her students is impressive, and I am excited to be able to honor her with dedication and creativity with this year’s Global Educator award. As an educator who honors her students’ heritage and lived experiences by cultivating a classroom culture for collaborative global learning, Erin also designs and implements an innovative curriculum. I am so proud to see her hard work recognized in this way!”
Sivek’s work creates opportunities for her newly-arrived students to learn about the world from one another as they learn English and discover their new community. Her success connecting student learning to life beyond the classroom through guest speakers, field trips, and participation in campus and community events has earned her national and international recognition. The Institute of World Affairs is proud to have her as a global education partner.
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