Whether it's grammar or biology, history or algebra, it's often one person who makes a subject come alive for a student.

Dawn Richards, a middle school science teacher, makes lessons come alive with real-world applications.
Dallas Thompson, a fifth-grade teacher, makes writing assignments fun with her enthusiasm and technology-based approach.

Today, The Times and local school systems honor the best teachers - those whose passion for the job is obvious and love of their subject is pervasive.

Richards finds life in teaching science

Thompson gives back to system she grew up in