The Society for Classical Studies is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Awards for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level:
Please click each name above to read the full award citations. To learn more about the awards and to see a list of previous recipients, visit the SCS Awards for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level page.
Kathleen R. Durkin
The Society for Classical Studies presents the Award for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level to Kathleen R. Durkin, a distinguished educator whose passion for Latin, dedication to her students, and unwavering mentorship have made her a true leader in the field of classical education.
Kathleen’s journey as a teacher is one of profound impact and tireless commitment. Since 2008, she has inspired countless students across multiple schools and served as a mentor to many colleagues. Her professional journey has taken her from Brooklyn to Queens to Garden City, NY, where she now leads the Latin program, as well as several related extracurricular activities, with distinction. A cornerstone of Kathleen's teaching philosophy is her belief in the power of Latin to inspire and challenge students. At Garden City High School, where Latin is an elective, she has built a program that draws students in from all over the school, many of whom have heard of her teaching through siblings or friends. Her students' work adorns the walls—posters, pottery, three-dimensional models—and the classroom is alive with energy and interaction. Kathleen skillfully differentiates her instruction to meet the diverse needs of her students, providing both additional support for those who struggle and enrichment opportunities for those who are ready for a challenge. Many of her students are so inspired by her that they pursue classical studies in college, and many of her alumni return to help with Latin Club events or simply to visit, a testament to the lasting influence she has on their lives.
Her contributions to the field of classical education go far beyond her own classroom. Kathleen has been a dedicated leader in the professional community, holding various offices for professional organizations and teaching as an adjunct lecturer for Hunter College’s MA program Latin Education where she has taught courses on Latin instruction, classroom management, and meeting the needs diverse learners. She contributed to the development of state and national standards and continues to advance her own expertise in the evolving landscape of Latin instruction. Kathleen is also an exceptional mentor. Throughout her career, she has provided guidance, support, and encouragement to fellow educators. Whether answering questions about teaching strategies, classroom management, or state standards, Kathleen is always helpful, sharing her wisdom with generosity and grace. Her colleagues often turn to her for advice, knowing that they can rely on her thoughtful, informed perspective.
Kathleen's students see her not just as a teacher, but as a role model. One former student shared that she keeps a picture of Kathleen framed on her desk as a reminder of the kind of teacher she aspires to be. This sentiment is echoed by many, who point to Kathleen's unwavering dedication, her ability to inspire a love of learning, and her commitment to the personal and intellectual growth of each student. Her classroom is not just a place for learning Latin—it is a space where students develop study skills, gain confidence, and grow as individuals.
Thus, the Society for Classical Studies presents the Award for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level to Kathleen R. Durkin, whose contributions to the teaching of Latin and to the broader classical community have had a profound and lasting impact. Her excellence in teaching, mentorship, and leadership in the field make her a model educator and a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
James T. Stark
The Society for Classical Studies presents the Award for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level to James T. Stark, a trailblazer in the field of Latin education whose creativity, passion, and commitment to student success have transformed the learning experience for countless students.
The approach that James takes to teaching Latin is nothing short of revolutionary. Recognizing that language learning should be as dynamic as the cultures it represents, James has created an immersive curriculum that blends the ancient with the modern, drawing on the power of storytelling and the thrill of role-playing games to engage students in his Latin courses. Students are not merely learning vocabulary and grammar; they are embarking on epic adventures, where they create characters, navigate mythological landscapes, and interact with ancient texts—all in Latin. This highly interactive, student-driven experience not only makes Latin come alive but also fosters deep, lasting connections to the language.
James’s students thrive in an environment where communication in Latin is at the core of every lesson. From daily conversation exercises to immersive storytelling, his teaching methods emphasize speaking, reading, composing, and listening, helping students build confidence and proficiency in the language. As one student remarked, “Magister Stark made conversational Latin very approachable... practicing conversational Latin greatly helped with my comprehension of the language.” His commitment to making Latin accessible to all students, regardless of their backgrounds or challenges, is evident in his inclusive teaching practices. In a school with a high percentage of low-income students, Mr. Stark goes above and beyond to ensure that every student feels valued and capable. He accommodates students’ diverse learning needs, offering support to those struggling with test anxiety or shyness and creating an environment where every student can succeed. He also incorporates diverse perspectives into his curriculum, from LGBTQ-inclusive materials to creating a classroom environment that reflects the racial, gender, and ethnic diversity of his students. By expanding the canon of classical texts and engaging in discussions about the relevance of ancient studies in today’s world, he fosters an inclusive learning space where all students can see themselves reflected in the material.
In addition to his innovative classroom work, James is dedicated to sharing his expertise with fellow educators. Through presentations, resources, and collaborative initiatives, he has inspired educators across the country to embrace new technologies and teaching methods, such as use of Classcraft (an online gamification tool) and various Latin novellas. He thus demonstrates ways to make the Latin classroom an interactive, student-centered learning space. As one colleague noted, “His commitment to sharing these practices with colleagues demonstrates not only his passion for education but also his collaborative spirit.” Through his visionary teaching, Mr. Stark has not only elevated the study of Latin but has inspired his students to become engaged, curious, and compassionate individuals. His dedication to creating a supportive, dynamic, and inclusive classroom is a testament to his belief that every student deserves to feel empowered in their education.
Thus, the Society for Classical Studies presents the Award for Excellence in Teaching at the K-12 Level to James T. Stark. His exceptional contributions to classical education and his unwavering commitment to his students make him a true model of excellence in the field.
