Southwest High School teacher Amanda Boerst was selected as a recipient of the 2026 HMH Read 180 Excellence in Education Award. 

On Friday, May 7, 2026, Boerst received her award through a surprise presentation in her classroom surrounded by her students and peers.

The HMH Read 180 award recognizes the progress made by students in the areas of literacy, math, and personal development beyond their academic pursuits. The awards also acknowledge educators who are determined to guide their students toward success. 

“Amanda Boerst is recognized as a transformative educator who has made a strong, positive impact on her students and colleagues,” Boerst’s nominator wrote. “Her dedication, passion, and commitment to student success make her truly deserving of this recognition.”

This year, 350 nominations were submitted from across the country. Of those, only 43 educators were selected as winners.

The 20th annual Read 180 Awards program is organized by HMH, a learning learning technology company that honors exceptional students and educators for their remarkable growth both inside and outside the classroom. 

Winners are selected based off of demonstrated improvements in reading or math through the use of Read 180Ⓡ or Math 180Ⓡ as well as showing exceptional dedication to continuous improvement and academic growth.

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