UD alumna wins national physical education teacher of the year award

11:52 a.m., Jan. 26, 2016--University of Delaware alumna Betty Ann Fish was named the top physical education teacher in the country by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America). 

Fish, a 1987 graduate who lettered in both field hockey and lacrosse while at UD, is a teacher and department chair at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy in Philadelphia. 

Honors Stories

National Medal of Science

President Barack Obama recently presented the National Medal of Science to University of Delaware alumnus Rakesh Jain.

Warren Award

Rosalind Johnson, assistant dean for student success in the NUCLEUS Program in UD's College of Arts and Sciences, was presented the John Warren Excellence in Leadership and Service Award during a May 26 ceremony.

• Warren Award
• Athletic training accolades
• Outstanding student teachers
• Library recognition

The teacher of the year award recognizes outstanding teaching performance at the elementary school level and the ability to motivate today’s youth to participate in a lifetime of physical activity. 

“My teaching philosophy is to inspire students to be physically active and challenge themselves in anything they do,” said Fish, who graduated UD with a bachelor’s degree in physical education and health. “To be honored by my peers and have my program recognized nationally was truly humbling.”  

As she approaches three decades in education, the UD alumna uses a mixture of traditional teaching methods, the latest teaching concepts and new technologies to keep her students engaged and active. 

“Her adaptation of technology for use in the classroom has been celebrated nationally,” said Priscilla G. Sands, Springside Chestnut Hill Academy president. “Educators around the country are constantly turning to this extraordinary woman as a mentor and guide.”