The Carlston Family Foundation has named Fontana Unified School District Dance Teacher Nicole Robinson teacher of the year. Robinson has been a dance teacher at A.B. Miller High School for 22 years.
While at A.B. Miller, Robinson introduced the Conservatory of Dance for students who have little training in the performing arts. Its popularity prompted Robinson to develop a districtwide dance and arts education curriculum, called the Dance Collaborative, that promotes self-expression through the arts.
“From my conversations with Nicole’s former students, it was exceptionally clear that her instructional skills and techniques, as well as her personal guidance, significantly contributed to both their academic and personal success,” Carlston Family Foundation CEO Tim Allen said. “They commented on the incredible passion and energy she has for teaching dance.”
Robinson will receive a monetary award of $20,000 – $15,000 for her personal use and $5,000 as a grant for A.B. Miller High. Robinson will also join the foundation’s board of advisors. Robinson will be honored at the 15th Annual CFF Awards Ceremony on Nov. 11 in Mill Valley. The award will be presented by the former A.B. Miller student who nominated her and whose identity will be kept secret until the ceremony. Allen will formally present the award to the FUSD Board of Education on December 13.
“As a teacher, my priority is to put students first and ensure they have a rich experience. I want to open the door to opportunity for all students to explore dance and the arts, to find a platform for their creativity, and encourage them to incorporate this knowledge in their daily lives,” Robinson said. “I want to thank the foundation for recognizing the potential for dance to transform lives.”