Perham Education Association recently announced Heart of the Lakes Elementary Kindergarten teacher Tammy Richter has been named the PEA Teacher of the Year.

In the announcement PEA President Paul Belka said the prestigious recognition is a testament to Richter’s exceptional dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the success and growth of her students.

“Tammy’s impact in the classroom goes beyond teaching; she inspires, motivates and creates an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential,” Belka said. “Tammy’s innovative approach, tireless efforts, and the genuine care she shows for each student’s academic and personal development make her an amazing educator.”

Richter was full of excitement and emotion when she found out she was named the PEA Teacher of the Year. She said it felt awesome, wonderful, rewarding, grateful and surprising.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition as we have so many amazing teachers in our district,” Richter said.

Richter has been teaching for 34 years with all of them coming as a member of the ISD 549 family at the Heart of the Lakes Elementary School. She said her favorite thing about teaching is the daily interactions with students.

“As a kindergarten teacher, I am greeted with smiles, hugs, stories and questions each day,” Richter said. “I also love seeing the academic, social, and emotional growth the students make throughout the school year. Everyday my students and I get to sing, read, write, count, and play together. It makes learning fun and exciting every day.”

Richter’s approach to teaching is what helps connect her to her students. She said she strives to have a welcoming environment, to build relationships with each child and to create a classroom family.

“I believe every child can succeed and work to create a positive fun learning environment,” Richter said. “I have high expectations for all my students and work to meet their individual and classroom needs. My teaching incorporates hands-on learning, movement, discussions, and exploration while learning.”

Richter has had several great memories and experiences during her 34 years of teaching. She said the excitement children bring to school at this age is so fun and hearing a child read a word, sentence, or book for the first time never gets old.

“The smile on their face when they have achieved a new skill is priceless,” Richter said. “The empathy and kindness children this age show for each other is inspiring. I just enjoy all of it—from helping them learn to read, to writing their own stories, to counting and learning new math concepts, hearing their conversations in the drama centers and the special celebrations. Each year brings special memories as the students really do become like a family to me.”

Richter’s unwavering commitment to her students and her ability to make learning a joyful journey are what truly set her apart. Her recognition as the PEA Teacher of the Year is not only a celebration of her remarkable career but also a testament to the countless lives she has touched throughout her 34 years in the classroom. As she continues to inspire young minds with warmth, patience, and enthusiasm, it is clear that for Tammy Richter, teaching is more than a profession—it is a lifelong passion.