The Zeta Delta chapter of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) at Sul Ross State University received the Gold Award, one of just five this year, from the national honor society for a short film celebrating what it means to be a teacher.

Educators from public school districts in Alpine, Marfa, Fort Davis and Marathon, Alpine Christian School, Alpine Montessori School and SRSU, are featured in the film describing the qualities of the profession by using one letter each – tenderness, enthusiastic, advocate, coach, high expectations, empowering and resilient – to spell out “teacher.”

Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom, a professor of education who wrote the script, said the film “documents how special teachers are in so many ways.”

“Teachers are the stars in our society,” she said. The film can be watched on the SRSU YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SrS1UxTC–w.

The “Celebration of Teaching” is KDP’s signature service initiative, encouraging members to support current teachers, cultivate future ones and advocate for the profession.

“You’ve shown just how incredible our community can be,” wrote KDP’s CEO Christopher Whited in the notification letter. “Whether it’s supporting our amazing current teachers, nurturing the next generation of educators, or standing strong for our profession, you’ve made a real difference.”

SRSU’s chapter will receive a plaque and a $200 award.

For more information, email jqvarnstrom@sulross.edu.