Coatesville Area Senior High School teacher Tracey Parker was both honored and surprised by a team that came to her classroom to honor her with the prestigious Citadel Heart of Learning Award on Monday, April 22. Parker, a Child Development teacher, was nominated by students, parents, and peers.

A 10-year-veteran of the district, Parker is known as an especially warm and kind teacher who encourages and inspires her students.

“Without Mrs. Parker, I wouldn’t be who I am today,” wrote one student in an anonymous submission. “She goes above and beyond for her students, and even as they graduate and move forward in life, she continues to remind them that teaching is not just a job but truly a passion.”

Parker runs the high school’s preschool program and works with students to help them understand the principles of child development and how to interact with and teach young children.

“Ms. Parker’s dedication and commitment to the teaching profession and our community are unmatched,” said Coatesville Area Senior High School Principal Brian Chenger. “She has the perfect personality to be able to teach our youngest learners and also mentor our older students who are preparing for post-secondary opportunities.”

The Citadel Heart of Learning Awards is one of Citadel Credit Union’s longest standing initiatives and was founded 23 years ago to recognize local teachers across the Greater Philadelphia area who go above and beyond the call of duty. Thousands of nominations are submitted each year by students, parents, colleagues, and others throughout the region.

As one of this year’s winners, Tracey will receive $1,000 and a glass heart award.