More Than an Award: Nordmeyer Receives LEEA Honor
Language Teacher Lisa Nordmeyer reflects on what the Leadership in Educational Excellence Award means to her
From teaching students how to communicate in Spanish and French to creating connections with students, Elizabeth Nordmeyer has made a huge impact on every student she teaches. The impact made is part of what makes being named the the 2026-27 LEEA (Leadership In Educational Excellence award) winner so meaningful to her.
Though she spends her days teaching Spanish and French, the LEEA represents more than just what happens in a classroom. For Nordmeyer, receiving the award was an unexpected moment of recognition.
“I was quite surprised. Mr. Mischke [BHS Principal] pulled me into a last minute ‘meeting’ with all of the admin and I thought I was in trouble,” Nordmeyer said. “It is always a great feeling to have your efforts recognized by the school administration, so I felt proud and happy, but since I really take praise well, I was probably a bit embarrassed.”
When Nordmeyer received the LEEA award, she said that the recognition was most meaningful to her because it shows her work has an impact, no matter how small.
“It [the LEEA award] makes me feel as though my work is worthwhile and has an impact, however small,” Nordmeyer said. “I have loved being a teacher for the last 35 years. To me, it’s the best job in the world and I think all teachers should at some point get the same recognition.
For Nordmeyer’s students, the qualities that are recognized in receiving the LEEA award can be seen in everyday experiences. Payton Hynes ‘26, one of her former students, said that Nordmeyer stands out because of ability to make an impact on all students.
“I think that Mrs. Nordmeyer is so incredibly deserving of this award, she is not only a wonderful teacher, but a wonderful person,” Hynes said. “I am so grateful I had the opportunity to learn from her and I know she will continue to make a difference in the lives of students for many years to come.”
Whether she is helping students understand a difficult concept or encouraging them, Nordmeyer has opportunities to make an impact on her students every day.
