Jamie Bryne, who teaches Structured English Immersion, English Language Arts and Advancement Via Individual Determination at Cactus Canyon Junior High School, 901 W. Southern Ave., has been selected as the VFW Teacher of the Year for the Apache Junction Unified School District.

Byrne has spent 12 years of her teaching career educating students at AJUSD. She taught several years at Four Peaks Elementary School before embarking on her most recent professional journey at the junior high. In addition to moving to a different campus and teaching different grades, Bryne took on two new classes. SEI classes required Byrne to focus on both the English Language Arts State Standards and the English Language Proficiency Standards.

Byrne set an example for herself as well as her students by meeting the challenge head on.

“It takes a great deal of planning time to ensure all of these requirements are met,” said Robyn Gonzales, curriculum manager for the district. “In addition, Jamie also teaches the AVID classes to sixth and seventh grade students. Even though teaching AVID is completely new to Mrs. Byrne, she has done an excellent job. She dives right into learning whether it be taking the initiative to learn independently or giving numerous time outside of the classroom to participate in training.”

Bryne exhibits the very traits and dedication she tries to instill in her students.

“Jamie is independent, but also a team player,” said Gonzales. “She is easy to work with and a true collaborator. She manages to be student focused, detail oriented, intentional with her instructional planning, and excellent at building relationships with her students. Her colleagues and students are honored she was chosen as VFW Teacher of the Year and we are truly grateful to have her as a part of our team.”

CCJH emphasizes a well-rounded education where academics, sports and extracurricular activities allow students to grow scholastically, physically and emotionally. CCJH students can get a head start on funding their college education by signing up for Pinal Promise in junior high. The program offers a tuition-free education at Central Arizona College for those who fulfill the requirements and graduate from participating high schools in Pinal County such as Apache Junction High School.