The week at Hoover High School began with a pep rally. Students filled the bleachers. The marching band and cheerleaders fired up the crowd. Even the new Husky mascot made an appearance. But, while the winter sports season is now underway, this was a pep rally to celebrate what happens in the classroom.

More precisely, it was to announce that one of Hoover’s own is the 2024 Iowa Teacher of the Year: Ann Mincks. The award recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and who have made a significant impact on student outcomes and their fellow educators.

Mincks, who is an ELL teacher at Hoover, has been with Des Moines Public Schools for nearly 16 years and is the 10th DMPS educator to be honored as the state’s top teacher.

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