Pinkerton Academy social studies teacher Joe Lee is the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year.
The 29-year-old educator now moves on to become a finalist for the National Teacher of the Year Award.
He received the honor during a pep rally at the school in Derry on Friday.
“It’s very satisfying and rewarding. I feel honored to be here and be recognized. But a good part of me feels as though I’m going to continue to do my job tomorrow like I did yesterday. And if I can share and collaborate and learn from future educators who probably have a similar mindset, I’m all for it.”
Lee, who lives in Exeter, says he brings a humanitarian approach to the classroom by working to relate to his students and holding them to high standards.
He co-directs the school’s China exchange program, as well as serving as coach for the school’s hockey and golf teams.
Lee is in his seventh year as a teacher and is a graduate of Plymouth State University.
