• Ines Kuna, teacher, iTech Preparatory
  • Ines Kuna, teacher, iTech Preparatory

One of the largest pools of applications and nominations for the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has been narrowed to the four 2017 finalists. Among them is Vancouver iTech Preparatory teacher Ines Kuna. The English and leadership teacher is one of two finalists vying for the title of Educator of the Year in the high school division. She also is the only finalist from Southwest Washington in both the K-8 and 9-12 divisions.

This talented teacher provides her students with engaging project-based learning opportunities such as the iPrize Competition, which blends public speaking with innovation in a contest similar to the TV show “Shark Tank.” She also advises on grading practices in language arts and mentors student teachers.

On May 25, OnPoint will announce one K-8 teacher and one 9-12 teacher as Educators of the Year. The credit union will pay both winners’ mortgages for one school year and donate $2,500 to their schools. The remaining two finalists each will receive $2,500 for themselves and $1,000 for their schools for resources and supplies. To find out who wins, tune in to the Live at 7 broadcast on KGW.

Since 2010, the contest has honored local educators making an impact on students, families and colleagues.