West Fargo teacher earns national award for helping student thrive

A West Fargo teacher’s effort to help one student feel at home in the classroom has earned her national recognition.

Anna Tywinski, a third-grade teacher at Westside Elementary, received an award from Honored, a nonprofit that recognizes teachers. The honor came with a $5,000 cash award, according to Prairie Public.

Jamie Bommersbach nominated Tywinski after watching her work with Bommersbach’s son, who has ADHD and autism. During second grade, he spent much of his time in a special education room and had limited time in a general classroom.

Tywinski worked to build a relationship with him and gradually helped him spend more time with other students. When Tywinski moved to third grade, Bommersbach asked whether her son could join her class again. Tywinski agreed, saying she believed she could continue helping him grow.

By the end of that school year, Bommersbach said, her son was in the classroom about 95 percent of the time. She said Tywinski has continued to stay in touch with him.

For Tywinski, the award recognized more than a single school year. She described the student’s progress and the support around him as meaningful, Prairie Public reported. She said the nomination came as a surprise.

The story highlights the daily work that can make a difference for students who need time, trust and support to participate more fully in school. For this family, progress came through a teacher who kept working to understand a child’s needs and build on the connection they had formed.

Tywinski continues to teach third grade at Westside Elementary. Her recognition brings national attention to a West Fargo educator and the lasting effect that a strong teacher-student relationship can have.