Katie Ryan, a music teacher at the Chautauqua Lake Central School District, is among the finalists in the Reader’s Digest contest to name America’s Favorite Teacher.

MAYVILLE — One of Chautauqua Lake’s own is in the running for a national teaching award.

Katie Ryan, a music teacher at the Chautauqua Lake Central School District, is among the finalists in the Reader’s Digest contest to name America’s Favorite Teacher. She has already advanced past two stages of voting and is seeking a spot in the Top 10. The winner will win a trip to Hawaii and a prize of $25,000.

Ryan, of Fredonia, stated her favorite part of being an educator is “witnessing the ‘aha’ moments when students grasp a concept, igniting their passion for learning.”

She said she loves to make an impact on students’ lives, fostering growth, curiosity, and a love for the arts that extends far beyond the classroom.

“Seeing their progress and witnessing their moments of self discovery is incredibly rewarding and fuels my passion for teaching every day,” Ryan said.

Ryan is the parent of a non-verbal and profoundly autistic child. Ryan said of her daughter, “(she) has taught me more about patience, empathy, and understanding. She taught me to communicate in ways beyond words and to cherish every small victory, changing my perspective as a teacher.”

Through the patience, empathy, and understanding she has learned as a parent, Ryan was able to form a connection through music with a student who initially struggled to engage. “He began to open up, his eyes lighting up with joy and connection, and was able to perform for the first time,” Ryan said.

If Ryan were to win the $25,000 grand prize, she would use the winnings “to enhance the quality of life” for her daughter through specialized care and supervision, engaging recreational activities, social outings, and vacations designed to accommodate her preferences.

With less than 36 hours left to determine the Top 10, Ryan ranked third in the group. The Top 10 will soon be finalized with voting ending Thursday at 10 p.m., with voting to continue until a winner is selected. The contest began March 25, and since then, Ryan has advanced through the round of 25 and the round of 15.

Votes for Ryan can be cast on Facebook and online at americasfavteacher.org/2024/katie-ryan.