SE Valley Times

Paula Dunnett, a teacher at Patterson Elementary School, has been recognized as the 12 News A+ Teacher. This monthly award honors educators who make a positive impact on their students and peers.

Dunnett is in her tenth year at Patterson Elementary and brings extensive experience across various grade levels. She is also the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program Coordinator, guiding the school as it seeks IB authorization.

"I love that International Baccalaureate connects student learning to their lives outside of school through relevant, engaging, and challenging learning experiences," Dunnett stated. "This allows students to think critically, problem solve, and take action both inside and outside of school."

Patterson Elementary is in the final stage of becoming an authorized IB school. The process includes professional development for staff, curriculum updates, and refining educational practices to support inquiry-based learning.

"It has been exciting to see the transformation in instruction and learning that is happening at Patterson," Dunnett added. "Our school community has worked extremely hard to ensure a top-notch education for all of our learners."

Dunnett holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Purdue University. She is pursuing a doctoral degree in Teaching and Learning with an Emphasis on Adult Learning from Grand Canyon University.

Outside her professional life, Dunnett enjoys spending time with her family through activities like board games, hiking, biking, and vacations.

Her dedication to student success and the IB philosophy inspires her colleagues, students, and the Gilbert Public Schools community.

Gilbert Public Schools also offers IB programs at Gilbert High School where students can engage in the full IB Programme or select individual classes. More information about these programs can be found at GilbertSchools.net/Teaching-Learning/Academic-Programs.