We're thrilled to announce that Mr. William Chittenden, our talented Japanese language teacher at Wabash High School, has been honored with the 2024 Rising Star Award from the Association of Indiana Teachers of Japanese (AITJ). This prestigious award recognizes exceptional educators with less than five years of experience who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and potential in the field of Japanese language education.
Mr. Chittenden's passion for Japanese language and culture is evident in his teaching methods and his commitment to providing enriching learning experiences for his students. He has actively participated in professional development opportunities through the Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association (IFLTA) and IU East Asian Studies programs, continuously striving to enhance his teaching skills.
In addition to his classroom instruction, Mr. Chittenden has gone the extra mile to provide his students with opportunities to engage with the Japanese language and culture beyond the classroom. He has organized their participation in the Japanese Olympiad of Indiana (JOI) in both 2023 and 2024, allowing them to showcase their language proficiency and cultural knowledge on a competitive stage. "Mr. Chittenden is a dedicated Japanese language teacher. He has transformed education by expanding our program locally and across the state. Through innovative teaching, cultural events, and statewide competitions, he inspires students and educators alike, fostering a lasting passion for Japanese language and culture," said superintendent Dr. Amy Sivley of Mr. Chittenden.
Beyond his dedication to his students, Mr. Chittenden has also made significant contributions to the AITJ. As the current Vice President, he has been instrumental in providing guidance and support to the organization. His leadership skills, passion for Japanese education, and respect among his peers make him a natural choice to lead the AITJ as the next President.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Chittenden on this well-deserved recognition. His hard work, dedication, and innovative teaching approaches make him a true Rising Star in the field of Japanese language education.