
Honoring Educators Who Inspire: Celebrating Kingdom East School District's 2025 UVM Outstanding Teachers
October 21, 2025
At the heart of every thriving school community are educators who inspire, nurture, and advocate for their students each and every day. This year, the Kingdom East School District is especially proud to honor two such individuals who have gone above and beyond. Congratulations to Megan Birt of Concord School and Deb Benning of Lyndon Town School for being recognized as University of Vermont Outstanding Teacher Awardees!

Megan Birt, Concord School
Megan’s commitment to her students and her craft shines brightly. At Concord School, she is more than a teacher — she’s a mentor, a collaborator, and a visionary. Her instructional practices reflect an unwavering belief in high expectations, inclusive learning, and the potential of every child to succeed.
What sets Megan apart is her willingness to evolve — engaging in professional learning communities, modelling curiosity herself, and sharing her learning with her colleagues to raise the level of the entire teaching team. Her students see her not only as an educator, but as someone who genuinely cares about their growth, well‑being, and future.
This award from UVM is a fitting recognition of Megan’s dedication and continual drive to make a meaningful difference in her classroom, in her school, and across our district. Congratulations, Megan — your passion and impact are appreciated and celebrated by us all.

Deb Benning, Lyndon Town School
Deb has worked at LTS for over 30 years and brings to Lyndon Town School the kind of thoughtful and energetic teaching that transforms classrooms into places of exploration, discovery, and community. She cultivates relationships first, creating a learning environment where each child feels known, valued, and ready to engage.
Deb's instructional strategies reflect that deep relational work: because students feel safe and supported, they are willing to take risks, try new things, and become more confident learners. Beyond her classroom, Deb models problem‑solving, innovation, and a collaborative spirit with peers. She helps lift the teaching practice around her by sharing ideas, reflecting on her work, and rooting her practice in what’s best for kids.
Deb's
recognition as a UVM Outstanding Teacher is a testament to her impact in the lives of her students, her school, and our district. Congratulations, Deb — thank you for your steadfast dedication and inspiring leadership.
The recognition of Megan and Deb reinforces what we know every day: that the Kingdom East School District is anchored in dedicated educators who give their best to children, families, and each other. These awards are more than personal achievements; they reflect a culture of excellence, ongoing professional growth, and a belief in what’s possible when teachers and students work together in partnership.
To Megan and Deb, thank you for your tireless work, your belief in students’ capabilities, and your leadership in our schools. Your accomplishments bring honor to yourselves, your colleagues, and the entire Kingdom East community. We look forward to celebrating your continued success and the stories you will help shape in the years ahead!