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2011 Arkansas Rural Teacher of the Year

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas honored Mindy Brinkman, a math teacher at Hampton High School, as the 2011 winner of the Arkansas Rural Teacher of the Year.

Brinkman, who has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in gifted and talented education, has taught since 2001. She joined the staff at Hampton High School in 2009 where she teaches geometry, eighth- grade mathematics and college algebra.

"A few of the most vital qualities that a teacher should cultivate are responsibility, respect and a love for learning,” she said. “One of the greatest joys of teaching mathematics is watching a student realize that he or she really can succeed in mathematics."

Brinkman was instrumental in the creation of a pre-school day mathematics tutoring program at Hampton High School. Brinkman and other mathematics instructors meet with students to provide tutoring when needed. The program is entering its second year.

According to Brinkman, it is difficult to take the time in class to help a struggling student when everyone else is ready to keep moving. To handle those situations, she simply asks students that need assistance to attend a tutoring session.

"Most students respond positively to this and do indeed show up for tutoring," she said.

Hampton High School Principal Glenn Johnston, a second-generation educator, said that Brinkman has the “teacher’s touch” for connecting with her students. "We were impressed with her from the beginning," he said.

Brinkman chooses to teach at a rural school for many reasons, including the class sizes, support from parents and the ability to closely monitor the students learning styles.

"I like standing in the hall between classes and knowing almost every single student that walks down that hall,” she said. “I love getting to know my students and their unique personalities. Raising children is a team effort. I want parents to realize that we are all on the same side and that we must work together for the benefit of the children."

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas sponsors this award every year as part of its commitment to education. Winners receive recognition, a plaque and a check for $1,000. Brinkman was selected by a committee of educators based on her answers to questions involving the following categories: professional biography, education, history, professional development, community involvement, philosophy of teaching, education issues and trends, and the teaching profession.

Arkansas Rural Teacher of the Year Winners:

2011
Mindy Brinkman
Hampton High School

2010
Ginny Chambliss
Rison High School

2009
Patricia Hesse
Weiner Elementary and High School

2008
Jimmy Stroud
Hector High School

2007
William Tims Edwards II
Oden High School

2006
Reginald (Reggie) Fryar
Van Cove High School

2005
Beverly Cothran
Bruno-Pyatt Schools

2004
Lavina Grandon
Valley Springs High School