Coventry honors Teacher of the Year finalist Michael Cook for student-centered math instruction

Michael Cook, Coventry High School’s district Teacher of the Year, told the school committee on May 7 that his work centers on students who struggle in mathematics and on expanding opportunities such as Calculus II that can earn college credits.

"I work with the students who struggle the most," Cook told the committee during a prepared presentation of his year as district Teacher of the Year. Cook, who said this is his 18th year at Coventry and that he champions access to higher-level math, described his role leading the math team and pushing for a local Calculus II course that awards college credit. He noted the district’s math team competed in regional events and that his students earned recognition in past competitions.

Committee members praised Cook’s emphasis on connection and trust as preconditions for learning. Member John Cambio and others said Cook’s focus demonstrates why he was nominated; the mayor asked about the path to implementing Calculus II in the district and Cowart noted budgetary and staffing constraints but affirmed the course has run in recent years.

Cook said he is a finalist for the state Teacher of the Year and described the application and interview process, which included presentations and professional-development planning. The committee thanked Cook for representing the district and congratulated him on the honor.

Next steps: Cook will await the state Teacher of the Year decision; the committee expressed interest in follow-up briefings on the feasibility and resources required to sustain or expand Calculus II.