Dormont Elementary School first grade teacher Mrs. Nikki McKiernan has been recognized by the National State Teachers of the Year - Pennsylvania Chapter with the Apple Award.

This award is presented to Pennsylvania educators for exceptional teaching, coaching, and other efforts supporting educational excellence. It recognizes members of the academic community who make a positive difference in the lives of students, school districts, and the community.

Mrs. McKiernan was nominated for the award by Shannon Varley, Ed.D., Keystone Oaks’ Assistant to the Superintendent for Academic Achievement, who cited McKiernan’s commitment to providing high quality literacy instruction as the reason for the nomination.

“Nicole’s passion for ensuring that every student becomes a successful reader extends well beyond her own classroom,” Dr. Varley said. “Her leadership and influence have positively impacted literacy instruction across the district’s elementary schools. She exemplifies educational excellence by leading with both compassion and expertise, making her truly worthy of recognition through the Apple Award.” 

In recent years, McKiernan has completed the Orton-Gillingham training, participated in the district’s LETRS training, and served as a pilot teacher for the CKLA language arts program. She analyzed student data and enhanced instruction by incorporating principles grounded in the Science of Reading. McKiernan also provided professional development for her colleagues, offering practical, high-quality training on CKLA.