East Chapel Hill High's Yoshimi Aoyagi Wins Elgin Heinz Outstanding Teacher Award

Yoshimi Aoyagi

Congratulations to East Chapel Hill High teacher Yoshimi Aoyagi, winner of this year's Elgin Heinz Outstanding Teacher Award in the Japanese Language category.

The Elgin Heinz Teacher Award was authorized by the United States-Japan Foundation’s Board of Trustees in September 2001 and recognizes exceptional teachers who further mutual understanding between Americans and Japanese. The award is presented annually to two pre-college teachers in two categories, Humanities and Japanese Language, and consists of a certificate of recognition, a $2,500 monetary award, and $5,000 in project funds. Ms. Aoyagi is planning to purchase computers with Japanese font. 

The award is named in honor of Elgin Heinz for his commitment to educating students about Asia as well as for the inspiration he has provided to the field of pre-college education.

"We are so privileged to have Ms. Aoyagi on our team," said Principal Eileen Tully. "She is a true professional who knows her craft, demonstrates expertise on a daily basis, and, most importantly, is committed to the success of her students."

Yoshimi has worked with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools since 2007. She also received the Outstanding Achievement Award at Southeastern Association of Teachers of Japanese this March. 

Way to go, Ms. Aoyagi...a well-deserved honor!