1. Susan Wilder Akre, M. Ed.
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Dedicated to develop lifelong learners prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Karen Teff. I have been
extremely fortunate to work with Karen for the past two years. In addition to her
unrivaled mathematics content and pedagogical knowledge, Karen understands how
students learn the process of mathematics and organizes her instruction and assessment to
optimize the highest student achievement.
Karen is a National Board Certified Teacher and the recipient of the Milken National Educator
Award, a prestigious distinction honoring top educators around the country. In addition to her
full time high school math position in the Deer River Public Schools District, she teaches
classes through Infinity Online and Itasca Community College, and has been trained in Japanese
Lesson Study. Under Karen’s tutelage, Deer River’s 11th
grade math students have achieved far
above the Math MCA state average. This is a major feat for a school comprised of over 60%
Free/Reduced lunch special population and nearly 40% American Indian ethnicity.
In addition to her incredible dedication ensuring that her students understand both
fundamental and advanced mathematical concepts, Karen possesses exceptional
understanding of research-based instruction, has established standards-aligned grading
and assessment systems, and trains teachers in standards-based grading. Karen teaches
with great passion, reflection and initiative.
Karen serves on many district committees and teams. She displays sound leadership
skills and math teachers from other districts seek her out for assistance and teaching
talent as she is known and highly respected by her colleagues. Karen keeps current with
new educational innovations and advancements, and focuses all decisions on the most
fundamental and essential stakeholder in the educational setting, the student.
I believe Karen to be an extremely strong candidate in any search process. She possesses the
intellect, ability and communication skills required of an educational leader. She would be a
great loss to Deer River students and staff. I give Karen Teff my highest recommendation.
Please do not hesitate to call if I can be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Susan Wilder Akre, M. Ed.
Deer River High School
101 First Avenue NE
PO Box 307
Deer River, MN 56636
“Home of the Warriors”
King Elementary School
504 5th St. SE
PO Box 307
Deer River, MN 56636
“King Pride”
