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A press release from the Agency of Education outlined some of Newton’s accomplishments over the course of her long career. In 2008, she secured a grant of almost $1 million for the school to create three ropes courses and purchase sports equipment such as snowshoes, ice skates, disc golf equipment and elliptical trainers. She developed curriculum centered around the Olympics to teach students about sportsmanship and world affairs. And she started a program based on brain research to help kindergarteners develop their motor skills. She’s also active in the local community as a member of the Vergennes Parks & Recreation committee, where she led a project to renovate the community’s ice rink and basketball facility.

“She’s a teacher who believes that learning can take place anywhere — in the classroom, in this gym, on the playing field and out in the community,” Education Secretary Dan French said in a short speech before bestowing the award. When French finally said Newton’s name, the gym erupted — with students clapping, jumping up and down, and even throwing their hats in the air.

“I’m as excited as you are,” French told them.