The Evergreen State College, in Olympia recently honored Robin Kunkler of Redmond High School with a Teacher of Excellence Award, recognizing teachers who have had a significant impact on the lives of students.

Incoming Evergreen students were asked to nominate their former instructors for the award, presented by the college’s Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Dr. Michael Zimmerman.

“Most of us can point to a pivotal experience in our education when a teacher noticed, encouraged, or influenced us. Maybe that teacher bolstered our confidence; maybe she or he changed the course of our lives,” Zimmerman said. “Because Evergreen values the art and practice of high-quality teaching, we ask incoming students to consider former instructors who made a profound positive impact. This award recognizes Robin Kunkler as a Teacher of Excellence who inspires and makes a real difference in students’ lives.”

In nominating Kunkler, former student Arash Muntazir wrote: “Ms. Kunker is super committed to all of her students, is lighthearted while still being serious about academics, and most of all is great at math puns!”

Evergreen has been recognizing Teachers of Excellence since 2011.