Copper Beech has PETA’s Teacher of the Year

Copper Beech Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Mary Ryan was recently named 2013 Teacher of the Year by TeachKind, PETA’s humane education division.

Ryan founded the “Kind Club,” which stresses the benefits of treating animals with respect and the benefits of going vegan.

Ryan also inspires her students to volunteer at animal shelters; persuades the cafeteria to offer more meat-free and dairy-free options; speaks with legislators about protecting animals; and delivers presentations on humane education to the PTA.

"Mary Ryan makes sure that her students learn the most important lesson of all — showing kindness to others," PETA Director of Youth Outreach and Campaigns Marta Holmberg said. "Teaching children empathy for animals is an important part of combating school violence and molding kids into caring adults."

The award coincided with national Teacher Appreciation Month.

For more information, visit TeachKind.com or click here.