It is discomfiting to be honored for something I love to do every day. To be identified as an excellent teacher is humbling and comes with the responsibility to be worthy of such recognition. It motivates me to continue to improve my craft and to engage with other teachers to help them navigate this challenging career. It also reminds me of the giants on whose shoulders I stand — the people who invested in me, modeled great instruction, and provided invaluable wisdom — I am profoundly grateful.

David Ferris Noblesville, IN | 7-12, Mathematics, 2017

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

David Ferris has taught mathematics for 36 years, spending his entire career at Noblesville High School. He currently teaches Advanced Placement Statistics and Finite Mathematics to 10-12th-grade students. His AP Statistics students are currently collaborating with the University of Notre Dame’s Advanced Placement-Computerized Adaptive Testing research program. David also serves as an instructional coach to 150 faculty members. David’s love for statistics has overflowed into tutoring high school and college students who struggle with the subject, as well as teaching statistics classes in Indiana Wesleyan University’s MBA program for adults. Students have appreciated David’s ability to explain statistical concepts with clarity and understanding. David is particularly passionate about helping younger teachers grow and mature, and works to build rapport and respect among colleagues to improve both culture and instruction. He helps plan and implement ongoing professional development at his school, and he leads AP Statistics workshops across the country for both the College Board and the National Math and Science Initiative. David is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the American Statistical Association. He earned his B.S. from Taylor University and his M.A. from Ball State University, both in mathematics.

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